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… Addition to Psoriasis What is it?

PSORIASIS: STRONGER TREATMENTS

PUVA phototherapy

PUVA is the name given to treatment that involves a chemical which sensitises the skin to the effect of artificial ultraviolet radiation in the A range (UVA). The chemical that is ingested is known as psoralen and the name PUVA is derived by combining the first initial of the word psoralen and UVA. The combination of the two has a powerful effect on the plaques of psoriasis, slowing down the rapid division of cells that is recognised to occur in active psoriasis. PUVA therapy is usually undertaken by a dermatologist. Care should be taken at all times to protect the eyes from UVA and throughout the day of the treatment. The dose of UVA exposure is carefully increased as burning of the skin can occur if the treatment id introduced too rapidly. A variation on PUVA phototherapy recently developed a technique known as bath PUVA. Rather than ingesting psoralen by mouth, a bath is taken for ten minutes just before UVA exposure containing the psoralen chemical. Sun protection with all forms of PUVA therapy is vital on the days of the treatment. PUVA is not first line treatment of psoriasis.

Methotrexate
Tablets named "methotrexate" do help psoriasis, and have been used in treatment. These tablets are used in higher doses to treat some cancers and leukaemias. As they are very strong, they are ordered only for people with bed and stubborn psoriasis. Care is taken that ulcers do not develop in the mouth and that blood formation is not affected in early stages after treatment. They must not be taken during pregnancy.

Acitretin
Acitretin (Neotigason) is an example of a new range of chemicals called "retinoids" which are synthetic derivatives of Vitamin A. This Vitamin has become more freely available through the 1980's and has a role to play in the management of very severe cases of psoriasis, and with the pustular forms of psoriasis. This medicine is only available through a dermatologist. Women must avoid pregnancy during the treatment with this agent and for one year after completing the course. Dry skin side effects are prominent and cholesterol and fats in the blood must be monitored during the course.

Cyclosporin
Cyclosporin is a medicine that has revolutionised organ transplantation. The agent is derived from naturally occurring mould and it was recognised that it had the ability to suppress the inflammation that occurs during psoriasis in the skin.

An Australian trial with this agent has been completed and its use in severe psoriasis has been approved by the Health Department. Kidney function and blood pressure must be monitored closely.

PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS
A complication of psoriasis is a form of ARTHRITIS which mainly affects finger or toe joints, and occasionally lower back or spine. Diagnosis can be difficult as it does not always appear in blood tests and x-rays.

THE ROLE OF THE PSORIASIS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA INC.
The Psoriasis Association of Victoria Inc. strives to assist people with psoriasis, or those wanting to know about psoriasis, by providing beneficial information and support enabling educated decisions to be made on treatment choices and lifestyle changes.

Many Psoriatics (those with psoriasis) have a need to communicate with others who can empathise with their problems.

This Association provides the forum where sufferers can learn how to handle their problems, and provide suggestions on how to cope better when disgruntled and disillusioned with their conditions and treatments.

Our bi-monthly meetings feature guest speakers discussing various aspects on psoriasis.

An annual contribution of $25, or $12 for pensioners, entitles you to bi-monthly newsletters and access to specialist information on specific aspects of psoriasis.

The Association raises funds for research into psoriasis and all donations of $2.00 and over are tax deductible.

The Psoriasis Association of Victoria Inc.
P.O. Box 1151 Glen Waverly 3150
Telephone: (03) 9530 4454