Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, well-demarcated erythematous scaly plaques that can be itchy and painful. It is caused by an overactive immune system that speeds up the growth of skin cells, leading to the buildup of thick, silvery scales. While there is no cure for psoriasis, several treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Symptoms
Lesions are either asymptomatic or pruritic and are usually located on the scalp, extensor surfaces of the elbows and knees, sacrum, and genitals. The nails, eyebrows, axillae, umbilicus, and perianal area may all be impacted.
Treatments
One effective treatment for psoriasis is using vitamin D analogs such as calcipotriene. Vitamin D helps regulate skin cell growth and can help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis. Calcipotriene is a synthetic form of vitamin D that can be applied topically to affected areas to help slow down skin growth and reduce scaling.
Some other topical treatments include:
Corticosteroids are usually topical but may be injected into small or recalcitrant lesions. Corticosteroids are most effective when used overnight under occlusion.
Calcineurin inhibitors: while less effective than corticosteroids, may prevent difficulties in treating the face and intertriginous psoriasis, but their effectiveness is unknown, as is their potential to raise the risk of lymphoma and skin cancer.
Tazarotene is a topical retinoid.
In addition to topical treatments like calcipotriene, other methods for managing psoriasis include phototherapy (UV light therapy), oral medications (methotrexate, cyclosporine, Mycophenolate mofetil, acitretin, isotretinoin), and lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers like stress or certain foods.
Individuals with psoriasis need to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their specific needs and goals, By taking a proactive approach to managing their condition, individuals with psoriasis can minimize symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or dermatologist. The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before making any significant changes to your skincare routine.
References
Das, S. (2024) Psoriasis - dermatologic disorders, MSD Manual Professional Edition. Available at: https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/psoriasis-and-scaling-diseases/psoriasis (Accessed: 29 February 2024).
Foo, C. (2023) Cases in dermatology (presentation), InfoBooks.org. Available at: https://www.infobooks.org/pdfview/497-cases-in-dermatology-presentation-chong-foo/ (Accessed: 29 February 2024).
Keywords
-Erythematous scaly plaques: Red, small, hard, dry, flat area of the skin.
-Pruritic: an uncomfortable feeling on the skin that makes you want to scratch or rub it.
-Recalcitrant: not responsive to treatment.
-Intertriginous psoriasis: a variety of plaque psoriasis that involves the body folds, most often the axillary, anogenital, and inframammary ones.
Kommentare