PSORIASIS

What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes skin redness and irritation. The cause of the disorder is an over active immune system that attacks the normal skin. The skin begins growing at a faster than normal rate that causes it to thicken and scale, which becomes irritating.

Who is affected by Psoriasis?
Over 2% of the US Population suffers from psoriasis and this number is constantly growing. Psoriasis can affect any one at any age, but studies show most patients to be greater than 10 years old. Incidence seems to have 2 peaks: (1) at 16-22 years old and (2) around 60 years old. More than 50% of patients have a family history of psoriasis.

Symptoms

• Irritated red patches of skin (most commonly on elbows, knees, trunk, but can be anywhere on body)
• Dry skin covered with silver flakes (referred to as scales)
• Thickening affected skin
• Thickening and pitting of nails
• Sometimes accompanied by joint pain

*    Certain triggers can make the symptoms worse such as infections, skin injury, stress, cold weather, smoking, alcohol use, and certain medications

Diagnosis

• Usually based on visual findings

Options for Treatment

• Topical steroids
• Topical vitamin D preparations
• Topical retinoids
• Topical salicylic acid
• Phytotherapy
• Oral retinoids
• Oral cyclosporine
• And many more