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PUVA Psoralen is phototoxic (that is, it makes skin much more sensitive to light) - ask for immediate help if spilled on skin.

These notes are intended to provide you with information about your treatment.  The entire notes should be read so that you are aware of the requirements on your part to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the therapy.  Any additional questions that you may have can be answered by your doctor, or pharmacist, or the clinic staff.

 What is Topical 'PUVA' Therapy?

 Topical PUVA involves application of the drug Psoralen which, after absorption, is activated' by UVA light given in a strictly monitored dose. The Psoralen is contained in a Gel.  Several different skin diseases can be treated effectively with PUVA.

 What is the UVA Light?

 Light is classified into many different wavelengths or parts. One part is known as Ultraviolet Light, a normal component of sunlight. Artificial light sources are now available that produce Ultraviolet A.

 What should you do before PUVA Therapy?

 You may be asked to attend a phototesting session 3 days before starting treatment, involving a trial exposure of small areas of skin (usually on the arm), to test your sensitivity to PUVA therapy.

 Please do not use any ointments or creams, perfumed soaps or toiletries immediately before coming for treatment. Do not use Coal Tar preparations for at least 24 hours prior to PUVA. This is because some perfumes and medicines contain chemicals which increase light sensitivity, and might lead to a “sunburn effect" following PUVA treatment.

 Also, some medical conditions can be aggravated by PUVA. Before starting therapy, be sure to tell your doctor, or the clinic staff, if you:­

 1)         had a severe reaction to puvasoralen in the past.

2)         had recent radiotherapy treatment or are planning any.

            (This does not mean X-Rays for diagnosis).

3)         have, or ever had, skin cancer.

4)          have any medical condition that requires you to stay  

             out of the sun.

5)         are using any topical creams or ointments or are taking ANY drugs (either prescription or bought over the counter). We are happy to check that they are suitable to use in conjunction with your PUVA treatment.

How do We use Psoralen GEL?

 Puvasoralen is a potent drug.  Never use more than is necessary since it may result in burning and/or blistering of your skin after exposure to ultraviolet light (See Below):

The Nurses at the Phototherapy Department will be responsible for applying the Gel to your skin condition prior to Phototherapy.

1)         Apply the Gel to the areas of affected skin using a gloved finger. The amount of Gel used is calculated at your first session according to the area of skin to be exposed.

2)         After the Gel has been applied you have to wait 30 minutes before light therapy can be performed. A timer is set by the nurses to measure this wait.

3)         At 15 minutes l check the Gel and wipe off any excess Gel applied.

4)         When the 30 minutes are finished  you will go through to the Light Therapy suite.

5)         You will be given a set of UV Light protective goggles which you should wear whilst being exposed to the UV Light.

6)         The Nurses will position you in the cubicle or as needed, calculate your UV Light exposure time and give your Light dose.

7)         When the exposure has been performed, your next appointment time is set and you may go home. It is not necessary to wash the Gel off straight after application.

What special precautions should you take?

1)         Skin protection - Do not expose PUVA treated. skin to sunlight or sun lamps for 24  hours after using the Gel, e.g. avoid sitting near a window as UVA will pass through glass; wear gloves whilst driving the car. On exposed areas use a small amount of sun screen (Factor 30).

2)         Treated areas may remain sensitive to sunlight for 2-3 days.

3)         It is very important not to touch other areas, especially your face, whilst if the Gel is on your hands and you are waiting for the UVA part of your therapy. This would only unnecessarily increase the area of the skin which will be sensitive to light.

4)         Once the area to be treated has been established (e.g. palms and backs of fingers) this same area should have the Gel applied on each occasion until otherwise advised. Otherwise excessive reddening may result.

5)         Tell the doctor or the PUVA clinic staff if you are prescribed ANY drugs or wish to take any medication during PUVA treatment.

 How long will the treatment last?

 It may take several weeks before your skin condition improves. You may need prolonged PUVA treatment to maintain the improvement.  Please remember that it is important to attend regularly.

 Are there problems associated with pregnancy or breast-feeding whilst having PUVA therapy?

1)            Birth control methods should be used because the effects of PUVA therapy on the unborn child are not known. If you become pregnant, inform your doctor or clinic staff immediately.

2)            Since it is not known whether Puvasoralen passes into mother's milk, it is safer not to breast feed whilst using this drug.

What are the risks of PUVA therapy?

 The risks and benefits of  PUVA will already have been discussed at clinic before you begin therapy, but if you wish to discuss them further please ask the doctor or clinic staff.

 What are the possible side- effects?

 Tenderness or blistering of the skin may occur, but can be helped by products recommended by your doctor, pharmacist or clinical staff.  It is usual to experience slight reddening and/or itchiness of the skin during the two or three days following treatment, but it is important to contact your doctor or PUVA clinic, if any side effect is severe or bothers you at any stage.            

 What else should you know?

 1)         It is advisable to use an emollient on PUVA treated areas to combat the possible drying effect of the treatment

2)            Remember that the drug has been prescribed specifically for YOU and YOUR diagnosed condition. Do not use the drug for any other condition nor give the drug to others even if they have similar symptoms.