PUVA
The Pin PUVA stands for psoralens - chemicals that make the skin sensitive to light - while the UVA refers to long-wave ultraviolet light.
PUVA was introduced as a form of therapy in the 1970s and designed as a treatment for psoriasis. Today the treatment is used for a wide range of skin conditions. The precise method in which PUV A works is still uncertain. It may be that PUV A simply inhibits the proliferation of epidermal cells or it may be that there is some complex immunological mechanism involved.
When PUVA treatment is being used, the psoralens can either be taken by mouth or rubbed on to affected areas of the skin. The ultraviolet light is then shone on to the skin. The main side-effects are nausea and some skin burning. There is also the disadvantage that the patient has to attend hospital quite often. The advantage with PUV A, however, is that it is pleasant, it isn't at all messy, and it is remarkably effective.
PUVA was introduced as a form of therapy in the 1970s and designed as a treatment for psoriasis. Today the treatment is used for a wide range of skin conditions. The precise method in which PUV A works is still uncertain. It may be that PUV A simply inhibits the proliferation of epidermal cells or it may be that there is some complex immunological mechanism involved.
When PUVA treatment is being used, the psoralens can either be taken by mouth or rubbed on to affected areas of the skin. The ultraviolet light is then shone on to the skin. The main side-effects are nausea and some skin burning. There is also the disadvantage that the patient has to attend hospital quite often. The advantage with PUV A, however, is that it is pleasant, it isn't at all messy, and it is remarkably effective.
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