Vahlquist C, Larsson M, Ernerudh J, Berlin G, Skogh T, Vahlquist A. Treatment of psoriatic arthritis with extracorporeal photochemotherapy and conventional psoralen-ultraviolet A irradiation.
ARTHRITIS AND RHEUMATISM 1996;
39:1519-23. [PMID:
8814063 DOI:
10.1002/art.1780390911]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To study the use of combined photopheresis and psoralen-ultraviolet A irradiation (PUVA) in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis.
METHODS
Eight patients with psoriasis and sero-negative arthritis received photopheresis for 12 weeks, followed by photopheresis plus PUVA for another 12 weeks. Clinical and laboratory examinations were performed every 3 months for up to 1 year after therapy.
RESULTS
Four patients experienced a marked improvement of joint symptoms that lasted for > or = 12 months post-therapy (74% decrease in the Ritchie articular index; P < 0.01). Prior to therapy, these patients had a higher CD4:CD8 ratio than the poor responders. Only minor laboratory changes occurred.
CONCLUSION
A more extensive trial of photopheresis plus PUVA in psoriatic arthritis is warranted.
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