PUVA
Pronunciation: PYOO-vah
Also written as: PUVA — Psoralen + Ultraviolet A
A photochemotherapy regimen combining psoralen (a photosensitising agent) with long-wave ultraviolet A radiation, used to treat inflammatory skin conditions.
Full Definition
PUVA stands for Psoralen + UVA (ultraviolet A) and describes a therapeutic approach in which patients ingest or topically apply a psoralen compound before exposure to UVA light, exploiting the photoactivated DNA-crosslinking properties of psoralens to suppress keratinocyte proliferation and immune activity. It is used primarily for psoriasis, vitiligo, mycosis fungoides, and atopic dermatitis. Editors should note that 'PUVA' is always written in all-capitals as an established acronym, and must be distinguished from 'NB-UVB' (narrowband ultraviolet B therapy), a separate phototherapy modality. The acronym should be expanded at first use in clinical manuscripts.
Usage
Usage note: Always uppercase. Expand at first mention. Distinguish from NB-UVB (narrowband UVB phototherapy), which does not involve psoralens.
In Context
- "The patient was commenced on bath PUVA twice weekly after failing to respond adequately to topical corticosteroids." — Dermatology treatment protocol
- "Expand 'PUVA' at first use to 'psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA)' per journal style." — Editorial style instruction