Long-term continuation of psoralen and ultraviolet-A treatment of psoriasis

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Abstract
The continued reliance on psoralen and UV-A (PUVA) radiation was studied in 1172 patients. After an average treatment period of 1.8 yr, 937 (80%) patients were still receiving PUVA therapy or planned to use PUVA if their psoriasis flared. Both groups were defined as patients who continue to rely on PUVA. Patients with most extensive disease were least likely to continue receiving therapy. Among 1079 patients with less than 70% involvement, 890 (82%) patients continued to rely on PUVA after 1.8 yr. Factors associated with decreased continuation in this group included the following: age older than 60 yr, fair or poor general healthy, multiple previous hospitalizations for treatment of psoriasis and unusual reactions to sun exposure. The ability of PUVA to meet long-term treatment needs varies according to demographic and certain disease factors.

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