Photochemotherapy of psoriasis using methoxsalen and sunlight. A controlled study.

Abstract

Fifty-one patients with psoriasis were treated with oral methoxsalen and sunlight exposure. Twelve of these patients received either methoxsalen or placebo prior to whole-body exposure. The remainder were treated with methoxsalen and sunlight to one side of the body and sunlight alone to the other. The conventional dose of methoxsalen (0.6 mg/kg) was compared with a low dose (0.3 mg/kg). Oral methoxsalen when used in the higher dose followed by sun exposure is an effective treatment for psoriasis. Accurate ultraviolet dosimetry is essential to avoid phototoxic burns. The advantages and disadvantages of solar photochemotherapy are discussed.

• Authors: J A Parrish, A D White, T Kingsbury, M Zahar, T B Fitzpatrick
• Journal: Archives of dermatology (Arch Dermatol) Vol. 113 Issue 11 Pg. 1529-32 (Nov 1977) ISSN: 0003-987X [Print] United States
• PMID: 337903 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Controlled Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Placebos
• Methoxsalen

Topics

• Clinical Trials as Topic
• Double-Blind Method
• Humans
• Methoxsalen (administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Photochemotherapy (adverse effects)
• Placebos
• Psoriasis (drug therapy)
• Sunlight