ABSTRACT

There are several other forms of phototherapy used in the treatment of psoriasis (Table 1) and while these are not widely used, consideration of their advantages and disadvantages is worthwhile.

GOECKERMAN REGIMEN

This treatment is mainly of historic interest now since it is only practiced in a few centers. However, introduction of the treatment in 1925 was a major step forward in the management of psoriasis since it is not only very effective, but in the half century of its widespread use, it also proved to be very safe. At the time of its discovery, Goeckerman was searching for ways to photosensitize the skin and thus increase the therapeutic effectiveness of

UV radiation. As we will discuss, he discovered the right treatment for the wrong reason.