Association of cyclosporine and 311 nM UVB in the treatment of moderate to severe forms of psoriasis : a new strategic approach

Psoriasis is a T-lymphocyte mediated autoimmune disease. The response to therapies targeting T-lymphocytes suggest that the latter is a key cell in the pathogenesis of the disease. Cyclosporine (CsA) inhibits the proliferation and the IL-2 dependent expansion of T-lymphocytes. Ultraviolet radiation is an effective treatment for psoriasis. Several studies have demonstrated a significant improvement of the therapeutic response when narrow-band radiation is issued by TL-01 fluorescent lamp compared to broadband UVB issued by other fluorescent sources. The effects of UVB on the immune system appear to be limited to the cell-mediated compartment of the immune response. In order to reduce the cumulative dose of UVB and limit the toxicity of drugs in the therapy of psoriasis, phototherapy with UVB has been used as treatment in association with other standard therapies. The purpose of the study is to evaluate, in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis a combined therapy with Cyclosporine A and 311 nm UVB phototherapy.