The Action Spectrum of 8-Methoxypsoralen for Erythema in Human Skin..

Erythema action spectrum of topical 8‐methoxypsoralen‐sensitized skin re‐evaluated: implications for routine clinical practice

“…Our measured action spectrum for topical 8‐MOP PUVA‐induced erythema differs from previously published erythema action spectra . This is most probably due to the use of strong solvents to deliver the psoralen in a different concentration, and differences in timings in application of psoralen and reading of erythema in previous studies.…”

“…Minimal phototoxic doses (MPDs) were read at 72 h. These findings showed a peak sensitivity between 330 and 335 nm for 8‐MOP, six times more effective than 365 nm. In the study by Buck et al . there was a delay of between 1.5 and 2 h between application of 1% 8‐MOP solution in chloroform and illumination with UVA.…”

Treatment of Vitiligo With Topical Methoxsalen and Blacklite

“…Advantages to this regimen include: (1) a controlled stimulus, devoid of untoward reactions; (2) the use of weekly treatment schedules; (3) avoidance of systemic admin¬ istration of a drug; (4) no generalized hyperpigmentation; (5) inexpensive light source; and finally, (6) some discernible repigmentation in the majority of patients.…”

Vitiligo treatment options: An evolving scenario

“…In due course, use of oral/topical psoralen and exposure to the sunlight became a conventional treatment for vitiligo. Buck et al (57) and Pathak et al (58) ultimately discovered that 8-methoxypsoralen is capable of sensitizing the vitiligo skin at an optimal 360 nm. It was a major breakthrough, and had resulted in the introduction of UVA light chambers, which instigated several research workers (59)(60)(61)(62)(63) to make use of this facility, either alone or along with other medications or surgical intervention.…”