PUVA therapy involves the use of psoralen and ultraviolet A (UVA) light, where patients are initially treated with psoralens—compounds that interact with UV light—followed by exposure to UVA light. This method is primarily used for treating vitiligo, a condition that causes white patches on the skin. The process is quite time-consuming and requires caution to avoid potentially severe side effects. Treatment can be administered either orally or topically, after which patients are carefully exposed to UVA light from a special lamp or natural sunlight. Most treatments occur in a medical setting to monitor side effects, and patients are advised to limit sun exposure outside of therapy sessions. The aim of PUVA in treating vitiligo is to restore color to the affected areas.PUVA is also highly effective for managing severe psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that leads to red, scaly patches typically found on the elbows, knees, and scalp. Psoriasis can vary from mild to severe forms, with severe cases significantly impacting daily activities and social interactions. Approximately 10-15% of individuals with psoriasis experience complications.Nevertheless, PUVA therapy carries risks, including an elevated chance of developing skin cancer, notably melanoma, a dangerous and sometimes deadly form of skin cancer. Therefore, long-term PUVA patients should undergo continuous monitoring and report any unusual skin changes, such as abnormal pigmentation, alterations in color or size, itching, or pain, to their healthcare providers.This treatment is also referred to as psoralen photochemotherapy.
