Treatment Overview
Photochemotherapy, or PUVA, is a combination of ultraviolet A (UVA) light therapy and a psoralen medication, which makes the skin more sensitive to the ultraviolet light. PUVA can be an effective treatment for severe atopic dermatitis.
Examples of psoralens include methoxsalen (Oxsoralen) and trioxsalen (Trisoralen).
A psoralen medication is taken 1½ to 2 hours before exposure to UVA light. This treatment is repeated 2 to 3 times a week; treatment length varies. While the dose of medication is not increased, the amount of light can be increased.
During photochemotherapy, you stand in a booth that contains light tubes that give off UV light. Goggles should be worn to protect your eyes during treatment. Men need to shield their genitals to avoid an increased risk of genital cancer.
What To Expect After Treatment
As your skin recovers from treatment, it should be checked frequently (at least once or twice a year) for signs of damage or skin cancer.
Why It Is Done
PUVA is usually only used for adults with severe and hard-to-treat cases of atopic dermatitis. It generally is not recommended for children.
Risks
Risks related to PUVA treatment include:
- Skin cancer and cancer. Exposure to UV light may result in skin cancer. The male genitals are highly susceptible to the cancer-causing effects of UV therapy.
- Skin damage. Exposure to UV light may lead to sunburn and skin damage.
- Cataracts. The risk of cataracts can be reduced by regular use of sunglasses that block UV light when outdoors.
- Worsening of other skin diseases.
What To Think About
Because of the side effects, PUVA is not generally recommended for children unless all other treatment fails to control severe atopic dermatitis.
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Credits
| Author | Robin Parks, MS |
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Michele Cronen |
| Associate Editor | Terrina Vail |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology |
| Last Updated | May 16, 2006 |
Ralph Poore
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