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Photochemotherapy for systemic sclerosis: effect on clinical and molecular markers
1Leeds General Infirmary, Great George Street, Leeds LS1 3EX, UK. nailausmani@hotmail.com
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|October 31, 2009
Summary
Psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA) phototherapy significantly improved skin symptoms in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. This treatment also impacted key immune markers, offering insights into SSc pathology.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Phototherapy
Background:
- Systemic sclerosis (SSc) causes significant skin morbidity.
- Previous studies showed psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA) phototherapy benefits morphoea.
- This study investigates PUVA's efficacy in SSc patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of PUVA phototherapy for cutaneous manifestations in SSc.
- To assess changes in disease activity using the modified Rodnan score.
- To measure serological and immunohistochemical markers affected by PUVA treatment.
Main Methods:
- Twelve SSc patients received PUVA phototherapy.
- Cutaneous disease activity was assessed via the modified Rodnan score.
- Circulating growth factors and adhesion molecules were measured.
Main Results:
- Eleven of twelve patients showed significant improvement in skin symptoms (mean Rodnan score reduction of 36.98%, P < 0.01).
- PUVA treatment led to a significant increase in circulating tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels in 8/12 patients (P = 0.03).
- Increases in E-selectin and vascular cell adhesion molecule were observed but not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- PUVA phototherapy is an effective treatment for improving cutaneous symptoms in SSc patients.
- The treatment influences specific lymphocyte markers, adhesion molecules, and cytokines.
- Findings enhance understanding of PUVA's mechanism of action and SSc's pathological processes.