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Photochemotherapy for localized morphoea: effect on clinical and molecular markers
1Department of Dermatology, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK. nailausmani@hotmail.com
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|August 14, 2008
Summary
Psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA) phototherapy shows promise for treating morphoea, with most patients experiencing significant skin score improvement. This treatment also impacts key immune markers, suggesting a potential mechanism of action for morphoea management.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Photomedicine
Background:
- Morphoea has limited effective treatment options.
- Phototherapy is being explored for morphoea management.
- This study investigates psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA) phototherapy for localized morphoea.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the clinical efficacy of PUVA phototherapy in patients with localized morphoea.
- To evaluate the effects of PUVA on serological and immunohistochemical markers in morphoea.
- To clarify the mechanism of action of PUVA in treating morphoea.
Main Methods:
- 13 patients with localized morphoea received either oral or topical PUVA phototherapy.
- Clinical disease activity was measured using a modified Rodnan skin score.
- Serological and immunohistochemical markers, including adhesion molecules and cytokines, were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 11 out of 13 patients showed significant improvement in skin scores (mean reduction of 62.9%).
- PUVA treatment led to decreased levels of vascular cell adhesion molecule and increased tumor necrosis factor-alpha.
- Changes in lymphocyte markers (CD3 and CD4) were observed in a subset of patients.
Conclusions:
- PUVA phototherapy is associated with significant clinical improvement in morphoea patients.
- The treatment affects immune markers, providing insights into its mechanism of action.
- Further research is needed, especially considering the small sample size and a case where combined therapy complicated interpretation.