Anthralin Therapy for Psoriasis: A New Look at an Old Compound

Due to the concern regarding potential side effects of potent topical corticosteroids, attention has recently shifted to the development of other therapeutic modalities for psoriasis. Anthralin is one of the compounds proved long ago to be an effective treatment for psoriasis.¹ However, the standard regimen, as described by Ingram,² is both inconvenient and time consuming. Modifications in formulation, mode of application, and frequency of use have once again rekindled interest in the use of anthralin.

A NEW LOOK  In this issue of the Archives, Schwarz and Gschnait report new methods of using this old medication. Also, the history of short-contact therapy with anthralin is outlined by Schaefer. Schaefer explains the rationale for using short-contact therapy, and then traces its development and modifications during the past six years. He also describes his elaborate work on percutaneous absorption, which led to his initial use of anthralin in short-contact therapy.