ABSTRACT
Bath PUVA therapy involves soaking of the hands/feet in a photosensitizing solution followed by administration of ultraviolet A light (P for the psoralen soak and UVA for the ultraviolet A light). In paint PUVA, medication is applied to the affected areas with a Q-tip, then you are exposed to the UVA light. These therapies are used to treat various skin disorders of the hands, feet, face or body such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, and eczema. Treatments are generally taken 2-3 times a week and are usually not given on consecutive days. Please read the following information so that you will have a better understanding of your therapy:
(1) For bath PUVA, you will soak your hands/feet in a warm solution containing the liquid psoralen drug. You will soak for 15 minutes. Please notify the nurse of any sores, cuts, or drainage on your hands or feet. After soaking, dry your hands and feet well. Sunscreen will be applied to your wrists and back of hand to protect these areas from the ultraviolet rays.
