Uremic pruritus treated successfully with the Goeckerman Program

Abstract

Uremic pruritus (UP) is a common condition among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on hemodialysis (HD). We report a case of severe UP recalcitrant to conventional therapy including topical corticosteroids, anti-histamines, and phototherapy, which was treated successfully with the Goeckerman regimen consisting of topical coal tar, topical corticosteroids, and broadband UVB (BB-UVB). Little is known about the pathophysiology of UP, and there is currently no consensus or evidence-based treatments for UP. Although further studies are necessary, Goeckerman therapy may be a promising treatment option when available for severe UP intractable to conventional therapies.