Psoralen phototherapeutic agents

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Abstract
These drugs are potent photosensitizers. Casual prescribing, inadequate instructions to patients, passing around the medication, and experimentation by patients have led to instances of severe, blistering dermatitis. Light allergy must be carefully differentiated from the simple tendency to sunburn. Use of the psoralens has precipitated allergic dermatitis Solaris in some patients. Patients must be cautioned about working under intense artificial illumination while sensitized by the psoralens. The psoralens must be used in the tolerated range of protection, which depends on altering the horny layer of the skin, is desired. If peeling or blistering is produced, the patient becomes more sensitive to sunlight instead of less sensitive. The dosage of the psoralen and the exposure to sunlight must be adjusted to the individual patient. There is no single schedule that will fit every type of skin and the sunlight in every locality.