The putative role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in psoriasis pathogenesis, severity and control was investigated in an open, randomized study of 30 patients (21-62 years) with moderate-severe psoriasis and 10 age- and gender-matched controls. Patients were randomized to three groups: i) psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) thrice weekly; ii) acitretin 50 mg/day; and iii) combined PUVA twice weekly and acitretin 25 mg/day. Treatment was continued for 16 weeks or until clinical cure. The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) was measured monthly to assess disease severity. VEGF was measured at baseline and at the end of treatment. VEGF levels were significantly higher in patients than controls (P < 0.001). ...