The Goeckerman regimen in two psoriasis day care centers

Abstract

Three hundred patients with severe psoriasis were treated with the Goeckerman regimen in two different day care centers. Each patient was personally evaluated and followed by us for a period of 1 year or longer in an effort to determine accurately clearing of the skin, side effects, and length of remission. The average duration of treatment to produce over 90% clearing of the skin was 18 days. Ninety percent of the patients remained clear for a minimum of 8 months, and 73% were clear for 1 year or longer. The average total body dosage of ultraviolet B (UVB) needed to clearing was 1.96 joules/cm2. Side effects were minimal, and there was no increase in skin cancer. The cost-effectiveness of the regimen in a day care center is comparable to psoralens and ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy.