Should PUVA be abandoned?

Article Abstract:

People with psoriasis who received treatment with psoralen and ultraviolet A radiation (PUVA) should be closely monitored for the development of melanoma. PUVA is a very effective treatment for psoriasis, but a 1997 study found that it may also increase the risk of melanoma. However, it is not known whether the patients in the study had other risk factors for melanoma. After more than 20 years of experience with PUVA, it may be premature to abandon it as a treatment for psoriasis. Until more research is done, patients who have risk factors for melanoma should not receive PUVA.

Editorial, Complications and side effects, Risk factors, Ultraviolet radiation, Melanoma, Psoralens

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Medical progress: Psoriasis

Article Abstract:

The genetic, clinical, and pathogenic aspects of psoriasis are reviewed and their implications for new therapies are discussed. Psoriasis, a common inflammatory skin disorder develops when both parents are affected, but prevalence falls to 16 percent when only one parent has psoriasis and to 8 percent when neither parent is affected.

United Kingdom, Science & research, Research, Genetic aspects

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