Comparison of 8-MOP aqueous bath and 8-MOP ethanolic lotion (Meladinine) in local PUVA therapy.
OBJECTIVE
Local PUVA (psoralen plus UVA light) is an effective outpatient treatment for patients with palmoplantar eczema or psoriasis. In this study, the efficacy, applicability and patient acceptance of two local forms of 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) PUVA therapy were compared.


METHODS
The study design was a left-right comparison (n = 37): the left hand or foot was treated with (aqueous) 8-MOP bath PUVA whereas the right received (ethanolic) 8-MOP lotion PUVA. After 1 month, the more successful treatment was continued on both sides until lesions cleared.


RESULTS
Both therapies were effective and both useful for particular clinical applications: patients with erosive lesions and rhagades appreciated the gentleness of bath PUVA. Those with pustules or hyperkeratotic lesions appreciated the greater effectiveness of 8-MOP lotion PUVA. The total UVA dose and number of sessions to clearance were smaller with 8-MOP lotion. There was no difference in the length of the relapse-free period. Therapy nonresponders usually became apparent within the first 12 sessions.


CONCLUSIONS
The difference between bath PUVA and lotion PUVA can be described as 'gentle' versus 'strong' therapy. The better therapy depends on clinical indication.
Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zürich, Switzerland.
S E
SE
Shephard
N
N
Schregenberger
R
R
Dummer
R G
RG
Panizzon
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000328:Adult; D001494:Baths; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005260:Female; D005533:Foot Dermatoses / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006229:Hand Dermatoses / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008730:Methoxsalen / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011701:PUVA Therapy; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D017319:Photosensitizing Agents; D008730:Methoxsalen