PUVA THERAPIES Meaning and
Definition
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PUVA therapies, also known as Psoralen plus ultraviolet A therapies, refer to a medical treatment method that combines the use of a photosensitizing medication called psoralen with exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) light. These therapies are commonly employed in the management of various skin conditions, especially those that are chronic and difficult to treat.
To administer PUVA therapies, a patient is first given a prescribed dose of psoralen, either orally or topically, which sensitizes the skin to light. Following the psoralen intake, the patient is exposed to UVA light, typically provided by specialized light booths or chambers. The UVA rays activate the psoralen near the skin's surface, resulting in phototoxic effects that can treat various skin conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema.
PUVA therapies are believed to act through several mechanisms, including the reduction of inflammation, the inhibition of abnormal cell growth, and the enhancement of skin cell turnover. The treatment schedule for PUVA therapies may vary depending on the individual and the severity of their condition, typically involving multiple sessions over weeks or months.
However, it is important to note that PUVA therapies come with certain risks and potential side effects. These may include skin redness, itching, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. Long-term PUVA therapy may also carry a risk of skin cancer. Therefore, PUVA therapies should only be carried out under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional who can assess the risks and benefits on an individual basis.
Common Misspellings for PUVA THERAPIES
- ouva therapies
- luva therapies
- -uva therapies
- 0uva therapies
- pyva therapies
- phva therapies
- pjva therapies
- piva therapies
- p8va therapies
- p7va therapies
- puca therapies
- puba therapies
- puga therapies
- pufa therapies
- puvz therapies
- puvs therapies
- puvw therapies
- puvq therapies
- puva rherapies
- puva fherapies
Etymology of PUVA THERAPIES
The word "PUVA" is an acronym derived from the first letters of the words "Psoralen" (P), "Ultra" (U), "Violet" (V), and "A" (A), representing a specific type of therapy used to treat certain skin conditions. The term was coined in the 1970s when this therapy was developed.
Psoralens are natural or synthetic compounds that are sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. They can be found in certain plants or can be synthesized. ULTRA refers to the use of ultraviolet light during the treatment. VIOLET refers to the specific wavelength range of ultraviolet light used in PUVA therapy, which falls in the UVA spectrum. The A denotes that this therapy involves the external application or ingestion of the psoralen before exposure to UV light.
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