Psoriasis is a common long-lasting skin disease. It causes skin cells to build up quickly on the skin's surface forming thick scales and dry, red, often painful patches. People who suffer from psoriasis may have long periods with no symptoms at all and periods in which psoriasis worsens. Common symptoms of psoriasis include dry, cracked, bleeding skin, thickened or ridged nails, swollen and stiff joints as well as red or scaly patches or spots. Treatments of psoriasis include topical ointments to lessen the immune response as well as reduce symptoms.
Topical Corticosteroids
Psoriasis is caused by an overreaction by the immune system's T cells. T cells travel throughout the body to detect and fight off harmful foreign substances such as bacteria and viruses. In psoriasis, overactive T-cells trigger other immune responses including dilation of the blood vessels in the skin. This causes an increase in both healthy skin cells as well as other T cells, causing skin cells to build upon one another forming thick scaly patches.
Corticosteroids are medications that help control the immune response in the body. According to the MayoClinic.com, topical corticosteroids slow cell turnover which reduces inflammation and relieves the itching commonly associated with psoriasis. Physicians prescribe corticosteroids as an ointment for small areas or as a foam or scalp solution. Patients most commonly receive corticosteroids during an active outbreak. Side effects of topical corticosteroids are rare but may include burning or itching skin, loss of top layer or skin, numbness in fingers, painful, itchy, pus containing blisters and thinning of skin with easy bruising.
Anthralin
Anthralin is a topical medication believed to work by normalizing the DNA activity of the skin cells. Physicians prescribe anthralin to reduce an active outbreak. The medication, however, also helps remove scales and make the skin smoother. Anthralin does stain skin, clothing, counter tops and bedding. Physicians will most commonly recommend short-term treatments, allowing patients to keep the medication on their skin for short periods before washing it off. Anthralin may cause mild skin irritation of both treated and uninvolved skin.
Vitamin D Analogues
Vitamin D analogues are synthetic forms of vitamin D used to slow the growth of skin cells. Physicians may prescribe vitamin D analogues as a prescription cream, ointment or solution that may be used alone to treat mild or moderate psoriasis or in combinations with other topical solutions. Side effects of vitamin D analogues may include itching, redness, worsening of psoriasis, burning, stinging and dry skin.
Topical Retinoids
Topical retinoids are most commonly used for the treatment of acne or sun-damaged skin. The retinoid tazarotene, however, was developed specifically for psoriasis treatment. Tazarotene works by normalizing the DNA activity in the skin cells and reducing inflammation. Side effects of tazarotene can include skin irritation and increased sensitivity to light. The MayoClinic.com warns that while topical retinoids have been shown to have a low risk of birth defects, pregnant women should still consult their physician before using the medication.
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