Definition of psoralen and ultraviolet A therapy - NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms

Page Options

	Quick Links


	Director's Corner Updates from the Director Dictionary of Cancer Terms Cancer-related terms NCI Drug Dictionary Definitions, names, and links Funding Opportunities Research and training NCI Publications Order/download free booklets Advisory Boards and Groups Information, meetings, reports Science Serving People Learn more about NCI Español Información en español

Questions about cancer?


	1-800-4-CANCER

	LiveHelp® online chat

	NCI Highlights


	Virtual and Standard Colonoscopy Both Accurate NCI Responds to Hurricanes The Nation's Investment in Cancer Research FY 2009 Cancer Trends Progress Report: 2007 Update Past Highlights

You CAN Quit Smoking Now!

Search for

Starts with

Contains

In English En español

psoralen and ultraviolet A therapy (SOR-uh-len…UL-truh-VY-oh-let A THAYR-uh-pee)

A type of photodynamic therapy used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo, and skin nodules of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The patient receives psoralen (a drug that becomes active when it is exposed to light) by mouth or applied to the skin, followed by ultraviolet A radiation. Psoralen and ultraviolet A therapy may increase the risk of getting skin cancer. Also called PUVA therapy.

Previous Definitions:	PSA failure, psammoma body, PSC 833, pseudomyxoma peritonei, psoralen
Next Definitions:	psoriasis, psychiatrist, psychological, psychologist, psychosis