PhotoMedex announces combination study of XTRAC Velocity laser and Clobex spray for generalized psoriasis

PhotoMedex, Inc. (Nasdaq: PHMD) announced today that John Koo, MD will be the principal investigator in a clinical study assessing the efficacy of the XTRAC Velocity® excimer laser in the treatment of generalized psoriasis when used in combination with Clobex® spray. Dr. Koo is Professor and Vice Chairman in the Department of Dermatology at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center. Spearheading the study will be Dr. Koo's colleague, Tina Bhutani, MD.

Dr. Koo expressed these views on the study: "Dr. Tina Bhutani, my associate, will be spearheading this groundbreaking study to treat generalized psoriasis with the combination of XTRAC Velocity®, the most powerful laser for psoriasis available, and Clobex® spray, the most powerful topical agent well-suited for use in generalized psoriasis. She hopes to pioneer an option for treating severe, generalized psoriasis not only more effectively than other treatment options available, but more importantly, with essentially no risk of internal side effects which are invariably associated with internal agents."

Dennis McGrath, the President and CEO of PhotoMedex, stated: "The XTRAC is already established as one of the safest and most effective therapies for severe psoriasis. With this new regimen, we expect this clinical trial to also demonstrate that it is one of the most convenient for patients. We are excited to provide psoriasis patients with a way to reduce their frequency of treatment regimen and therefore make it easier for them to enjoy more treatment-free days. The XTRAC is already widely reimbursed, and with this new treatment protocol we expect the positive economic impact to health insurers to further the positioning of the XTRAC as a preferred therapy for severe psoriasis. John Koo is a valued member of our Scientific Advisory Board and is well-acquainted with our technology. Dr. Koo and his team conducted a successful study with our XTRAC laser in 2008, on psoriasis patients with an affected Body Surface Area (BSA) of 10% to 20%, the results of which helped severe psoriasis sufferers in gaining access to this technology."

SOURCE PhotoMedex