The effectiveness of cyclosporine and photochemotherapy in the treatment of psoriasis: A retrospective study

I. M. Zonneveld, L. Witkamp, P. M.M. Bossuyt, M. M.H.M. Meinardi, J. D. Bos

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Abstract

Objective: In this retrospective study, the effectiveness of cyclosporine A (CsA) and photochemotherapy (PUVA) in inducing and maintaining remission has been evaluated for a 1 year period in 50 patients. Methods: CsA was administered for induction of remission and continued as maintenance therapy. PUVA was given as a single course. Patients were classified into two groups: moderate psoriasis and severe psoriasis. Results: Efficacy parameters showed a remission of 93% following one course of PUVA therapy versus 80% in the CsA group (P < 0.01) in moderate psoriasis. In severe psoriasis no differences were detectable. The mean induction of remission period with CsA was 12.5 weeks and with PUVA 13.5 weeks. Nine of 25 CsA treated patients and five of 25 PUVA treated patient failed to reach a remission within a period of 16 weeks. The mean maintenance of remission was 39 weeks in he CsA group and 33 weeks in the PUVA group. Conclusion: These results indicate a preferential position of PUVA therapy to treat both moderate and severe psoriasis that does not respond to topical treatment.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)232-236
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology
Volume9
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1997

Keywords

  • Maintenance of remission
  • Photochemotherapy
  • Retrospective
  • Rotational therapy

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