Psoriasis, Eczema & Other Inflammatory Skin Conditions

The Michigan Medicine Department of Dermatology is a pioneering leader for innovative psoriasis patient care and research. We provide remarkable knowledge and expertise for the advanced treatment of psoriasis to patients from throughout Michigan and the Midwest region. In all cases, whether inpatient, day-treatment or outpatient, we tailor the therapy to your specific needs.

Located within our Domino's Farms location, the Dermatology Treatment Center and Outpatient Phototherapy are our primary programs for outpatient management and treatment of chronic inflammatory skin diseases including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.

Dermatology Treatment Center 

The Dermatology Treatment Center (DTC) is U-M Dermatology's premier effort in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions. Our multidisciplinary approach places an emphasis on wellness, education and social support, and individualized nursing care. 

About the Dermatology Treatment Center

The DTC is an innovative, effective and convenient program for select patients with skin disorders. Patients admitted to the DTC benefit from a uniquely comprehensive program that provides intensive dermatologic therapy and special services for a single daily rate. Two key advantages of the DTC program are its convenience and its emphasis on wellness.

Designed for patients who have previously required hospitalization for their disease, DTC patients are scheduled six days per week (Monday through Saturday) and should plan to attend for an average of two to four consecutive weeks. Every effort is made to accommodate individual patient needs when scheduling treatment hours.

All treatment is provided within the DTC, in a fully equipped, self-contained suite that allows for privacy and individualized patient care. The DTC also offers an attractive, comfortable setting furnished with amenities that serve our patients as thoroughly as possible.

Included in the program are:

  • A modified Goeckerman regimen, including all applied medications
  • Complete and individualized nursing care
  • Lunch is provided
  • Kitchen facilities, including a microwave oven
  • Wifi, cable television and DVD player
  • Free parking

Procedures and Treatments

The Dermatology Treatment Center uses the modified Goeckerman regimen to treat skin disorders. This includes topical creams and medications, scalp treatments and ultraviolet light therapy. All patient care is provided by nursing personnel and physicians who specialize in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.  Each daily session requires six to eight hours of treatment. Patients receive individualized nursing care to ensure that patients' needs are met.

Results

Excellent improvement of the skin is typically seen by the end of the third week of treatment. Most patients can expect remissions of several months to a year following treatment. The DTC program also offers a strong emphasis on disease management and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The DTC nursing staff provides individual and group instruction so that by the time of discharge, each patient is taught proper skincare. This health care team approach is designed to provide a supportive, educational environment aimed at prolonging remission of the patient's skin condition.

Eligibility

To determine eligibility for the program, patients are sent for consultation by their referring physician to Michigan Medicine's Department of Dermatology Clinics for initial evaluation. Patients with severe cases or other uncontrolled medical problems do not qualify as candidates for treatment in the DTC and require hospitalization to achieve comparable results. After a few days in the hospital many such patients, when permitted by their insurance, can be transferred to the DTC for the remainder of their therapy.

What makes the DTC different from an inpatient stay?

Patients who are eligible for admission to the DTC receive individualized therapy similar to that used within the U-M Hospitals Dermatology Inpatient Service, however, they can return to their homes at night, or accommodations at a nearby hotel may be covered by the Department if the patient meets mileage qualifications. The DTC provides intensive therapy in a self-contained, relaxed and comfortable setting.

Insurance Coverage

Many insurance carriers recognize the DTC as an innovative and cost-effective alternative to hospitalization, but not all insurance will approve a DTC stay. Our staff will provide assistance to determine if your insurance will authorize this treatment, following your clinic evaluation.

Outpatient Phototherapy

Our Outpatient Phototherapy service uses special kinds of light to treat chronic skin conditions, such as psoriasis and severe eczema. Phototherapy may be used together with other treatments or medications to speed up improvement of the skin and symptoms.

Provided under the supervision of our highly experienced physicians and nurses, phototherapy may be used to treat the whole body or a specific area of the skin (e.g., hands). Multiple treatments over several weeks to months will often provide significant improvement (or possible clearing) of the skin condition. Please note that phototherapy lights are not the same as lights used in tanning beds.

Make an Appointment

To make an appointment at the Dermatology Treatment Center or Outpatient Phototherapy service, call 734-936-4054Visit our Make a Dermatology Appointment page for phone numbers for other dermatology clinics, as well as information about Dermatology Virtual Care and scheduling appointments online through the MyUofMHealth patient portal.