CHEMOTHERAPY OF PSORIASIS: TEN YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

Abstract

The hunt for an effective, easier to administer, more acceptable therapeutic modality for extensive chronic psoriasis continues. The chemotherapy of psoriasis is reviewed in 246 patients from 1964 to 1974 treated with methotrexate, 92 patients from 1971 to 1974 with hydroxyurea, and 36 patients from 1972 to 1974 with azaribine. Currently, the available chemotherapy agents are the least palatable and desirable form of treatment. Methotrexate continues to be the most predictable, effective and least expensive. The use of photochemotherapy may prove to be more effective, less toxic, and more practical until a more specific and effective etiologically directed form of therapy becomes available.