Photochemotherapy. A reappraisal of its use in dermatology

Oral psoralen photochemotherapy was introduced for the treatment of psoriasis in the mid-1970s. Since then it has become an established technique, generally giving good clearance rates of affected areas, and its usefulness has extended to treatment of other conditions. It is popular with patients but possible ocular complications must be avoided and the potential for carcinogenesis should be recognised. Although essentially palliative rather than curative, it has achieved major successes in the treatment of psoriasis and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and is also of benefit in the management of vitiligo. This article reviews over a decade of clinical and laboratory findings. Therapeutic responses are summarised and consideration is given to the protection of patients and staff.