Global InformationGoeckerman therapy information
Goeckerman therapy is a regimen for treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis using a combination of crude coal tar and artificial ultraviolet radiation. It is a specialized form of light therapy.
First formulated in 1925 by American dermatologist William H. Goeckerman (1884–1954), Goeckerman therapy continues to be used due to its efficacy and safety profile.[1] Individual institutions have modified the Goeckerman regimen and developed their own protocols. Standard therapy includes use of 2–4% crude coal tar in a petroleum base applied daily to the psoriatic plaques. The minimum period of time for tar application is 2-hours, although it has been recognized that greater periods of time produce better results.[2] The patient is then exposed to broad-band ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, although narrow-band UVB may also be used.[3] Laboratory studies have shown that the combination of coal tar and UV light reduces epidermal DNA synthesis.[4]
- ^ Goeckerman, W. H. (1925). "The treatment of psoriasis". Northwest Med. 24: 229–231.
- ^ Menter, Alan; Cram, David L. (July 1983). "The Goeckerman regimen in two psoriasis day care centers". Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 9 (1): 59–65. doi:10.1016/S0190-9622(83)70107-6. PMID 6886105.
- ^ Lee, E.; Koo, J. (12 July 2009). "Modern modified 'ultra' Goeckerman therapy: A PASI assessment of a very effective therapy for psoriasis resistant to both prebiologic and biologic therapies". Journal of Dermatological Treatment. 16 (2): 102–107. doi:10.1080/09546630510033140. PMID 16019624. S2CID 24668735.
- ^ Bolognia, J L; Rapini, R; Jorizzo, J L (2003). Dermatology. London: Mosby. ISBN 9780323025782.