THE ROLE OF PUVA THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF PSORIASIS

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease characterized by keratinocyte hyperproliferation and dysregulated immune responses. Despite advances in biologic therapies, phototherapy remains an important treatment modality for moderate-to-severe psoriasis. PUVA therapy (psoralen plus ultraviolet A) is one of the most established photochemotherapy methods used in dermatological practice. It combines a photosensitizing agent (psoralen) with UVA radiation to induce anti-proliferative and immunomodulatory effects on psoriatic lesions. This article reviews the mechanisms of PUVA therapy, its clinical efficacy, indications, safety profile, and its role in modern psoriasis management.