Photochemotherapy

Photochemotherapy is a type of treatment that combines the use of ultraviolet radiation and photosensitizing substances. It is also known as PUVA therapy.

In PUVA therapy, the patient takes a photosensitizing substance, most often psoralen, and then is exposed to ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 320-400 nm (UVA). Psoralen is absorbed by the skin and makes it more sensitive to UVA radiation.

The combination of psoralen and UVA radiation causes a photochemical reaction that inhibits rapidly dividing cells, including cells that cause skin diseases such as psoriasis, vitiligo and eczema. Thus, photochemotherapy can help treat these dermatological problems with minimal impact on healthy cells.

Potential side effects of PUVA therapy include sunburn, nausea and headache. In addition, long courses of treatment may slightly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Therefore, careful monitoring of the patient is required when performing photochemotherapy.

Photochemotherapy, also known as PUVA (puvalent therapy) is a treatment for skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and atopic dermatitis. This treatment method uses a combination of ultraviolet light (UVB) and psoralen, which is a photosensitizer, that is, a substance that increases the skin's sensitivity to light.

Photochemotherapy has been used to treat skin diseases for over 50 years. It consists of the patient taking psoralen, which accumulates in the skin and makes it more sensitive to UVB light. The patient is then exposed to UVB light, which destroys skin cells that cause skin diseases.

The benefits of photochemotherapy include the ability to precisely control the radiation dose, thereby avoiding side effects such as skin burns or eye damage. Additionally, this treatment can be used to treat other conditions such as vitiligo and seborrheic dermatitis.

However, photochemotherapy also has its disadvantages. For example, it may cause side effects such as itching, redness of the skin and an allergic reaction. Also, several treatment sessions may be required to achieve the effect.

In general, photochemotherapy is an effective method for treating skin diseases. However, before starting treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor and conduct the necessary examinations to avoid possible complications.