Effects of PUVA on human blood monocytes in vitro

Adherent monolayer cultures of monocytes at two stages of maturation were exposed to long-wave ultra-violet radiation in the presence and absence of 8-methoxypsoralen. A remarkably predictable, dose-related lethal effect was seen, suggesting that mesenchymal cells in general may be sensitive to photochemotherapy (PUVA). Both monocytes and macrophages were lethally damaged with doses that may reach the dermis in the course of normal clinical therapy.