PUVA Therapy
Dermatology · Dermatology
6–12 weeks initial course
Duration
Outpatient
Setting
Improvement in 4–8 weeks; maintenance sessions thereafter
Recovery
₹500+
Cost
📖About PUVA Therapy
Photochemotherapy combining psoralen drug with UVA light exposure to treat chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
Duration
6–12 weeks initial course
Setting
Outpatient
Recovery
Improvement in 4–8 weeks; maintenance sessions thereafter
Cost Range
₹500 – ₹2,000 per session
Specialty
Dermatology
Success Rate
60–80% significant improvement
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📋Indications — Who Needs This Treatment?
- 1Psoriasis, vitiligo, mycosis fungoides, palmoplantar eczema, lichen planus
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🔬How the Treatment is Performed
- 1Oral or topical psoralen administered
- 2UVA exposure in phototherapy cabinet 2 hours post-dose
- 32–3x/week sessions.
📝Pre-Treatment Preparation
- 1Consult a Dermatology specialist to confirm suitability for PUVA Therapy
- 2Complete all pre-treatment investigations as directed — blood tests, imaging, ECG, or specialist clearance
- 3Disclose all current medications, supplements, and allergies to your treating physician
- 4Fast (nil by mouth) for 6–8 hours if the treatment involves anaesthesia or sedation
- 5Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you, especially for procedures requiring sedation
- 6Follow all specific pre-treatment instructions issued by your care team regarding diet or medication changes
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
⚠️Possible Side Effects & Risks
- 1Nausea, phototoxicity, ocular damage, premature ageing, increased skin cancer risk long-term
🩹Recovery & Aftercare
- 1Improvement in 4–8 weeks
- 2maintenance sessions thereafter
Treatment Journey — What to Expect
Before Treatment
Pre-treatment workup, consent signing, and preparation as instructed by your care team. Baseline tests and imaging completed.
During Treatment
PUVA Therapy is administered over 6–12 weeks initial course. Vital signs monitored. Your specialist manages any immediate side effects.
Immediate Post-Treatment
Recovery observation, assessment of initial response, discharge instructions provided. Follow-up appointment scheduled.
Long-term Recovery (Improvement in 4–8 weeks; maintenance sessions thereafter)
Return to normal activities as tolerated. Monitoring for treatment response and side effects. Ongoing support from your specialist.
PUVA Therapy Cost in India (2024–25)
| Component | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist Consultation | ₹300 – ₹800 | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Procedure / Session Cost | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Medications | ₹500 – ₹3,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Follow-up & Monitoring | ₹300 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Rehabilitation / Aftercare | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 |
* Estimates for India 2024–25. CGHS / Ayushman Bharat may cover eligible treatments. Individual costs vary by hospital, city, and complexity.
Treatment Outcomes
PUVA Therapy has a documented success rate of 60–80% significant improvement when performed by qualified specialists at accredited facilities. Individual outcomes vary based on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PUVA Therapy?+
Photochemotherapy combining psoralen drug with UVA light exposure to treat chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
Who is a candidate for PUVA Therapy?+
PUVA Therapy is recommended for patients diagnosed with specific conditions where other approaches have been insufficient. Your Dermatology specialist will assess your suitability based on your diagnosis, health history, and treatment goals.
How long does PUVA Therapy take?+
The typical duration is 6–12 weeks initial course. This may vary based on the complexity of your case and individual response to treatment.
What is the recovery time after PUVA Therapy?+
Recovery typically takes Improvement in 4–8 weeks; maintenance sessions thereafter. Your care team will provide specific instructions based on your response and overall health.
What are the risks or side effects of PUVA Therapy?+
Side effects vary by individual and are detailed in the section above. Your specialist will discuss all risks and benefits with you before treatment begins. Serious adverse effects are uncommon but are part of the informed consent process.
What is the success rate of PUVA Therapy?+
PUVA Therapy has a documented success rate of 60–80% significant improvement at accredited facilities. Outcomes depend on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified specialist before deciding on any treatment. In emergencies, call 112.