PUVA in the Age of Biologics

The author of this thorough review discusses the pluses and minuses of this treatment strategy for psoriasis.

The introduction of biologic agents that target various aspects of the immune system and the availability of narrowband UVB phototherapy have transformed how dermatologists care for psoriasis patients. PUVA remains an option and may still be the most appropriate form of therapy for some patients. The author of an excellent review carefully summarizes the pathogenesis of psoriasis and provides information about the mechanisms of action, indications, outcomes, adverse effects, and areas of uncertainty regarding the use of PUVA. Key points include:

PUVA is very effective for moderate-to-severe psoriasis and can produce remissions of several months. The annual cost is estimated to be only 20% of that of biologic agents. However, an assessment of…

Reviewing Author

Craig A. Elmets, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Astellas Pharmaceuticals

EquityVaxin

Grant / Research support NIH; NIH/NCI; Veteran’s Administration; Ferndale Laboratories; Kyowa Hakko Kirin Pharma, Inc.

Editorial boards Cancer Prevention Research; Photodermatology, Photoimmunology, & Photomedicine; UpToDate; eMedicine; Journal of Dermatological Sciences; JAMA Dermatology

Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Vice Chair, Committee on Science and Research); Photomedicine Society (Board of Directors)

Craig A. Elmets, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Astellas Pharmaceuticals

EquityVaxin

Grant / Research support NIH; NIH/NCI; Veteran’s Administration; Ferndale Laboratories; Kyowa Hakko Kirin Pharma, Inc.

Editorial boards Cancer Prevention Research; Photodermatology, Photoimmunology, & Photomedicine; UpToDate; eMedicine; Journal of Dermatological Sciences; JAMA Dermatology

Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Vice Chair, Committee on Science and Research); Photomedicine Society (Board of Directors)