Affecting approximately 2 percent of the population, psoriasis is a lifelong, chronic immune condition with skin and sometimes joint involvement, according to Dr. Alan Menter in his article, "Guidelines of Care for the Management of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis." In psoriasis, the skin develops new cells too fast, resulting in cell build-up that causes red colored lesions with a silvery plaque covering.
Types
Topical treatments adequately manage 70 to 80 percent of those who suffer from psoriasis, notes Dr. Fred Ferri, in his book "Ferri's Clinical Advisor." Topical steroids, salicylic acid, calcipotriene, a vitamin D derivative, tar products and retinoid creams have proved to be successful topical options for treating psoriasis. If the psoriasis did not respond to topical treatment, other options could include ultraviolet B light therapy, targeted light therapy in the form of excimer laser and systemic treatments of methotrexate for severe psoriasis, notes Dr. Ferri and the National Psoriasis Foundation.
Warning
According to the NPF, precautions should be taken when using topical steroids. Steroids are effective at reducing inflammation. However, small amounts should be applied to the area, and avoid abrupt discontinuation which can cause psoriasis to flare up. Side effects of steroids include skin damage and thinning, changes in pigmentation and brusing says the NPF.
Interesting Fact
Biologics are a new class of treatment for psoriasis, according to the NPF. They are a protein-based drug derived from living cells into the body; biologics work by going after specific parts of the immune system, specifically T-cells and other proteins in the immune system responsible for causing psoriasis and psoriasis arthritis.
References
- "American Academy of Dermatology"; Guidelines of Care for the Management of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis: Alan Mentor, MD, Chair; April 2009
- "Ferri's Clinical Advisor"; Fred Ferri, MD; 2010
- National Psoriasis Foundation: Treating Psoriasis: Phototherapy
- National Psoriasis Foundation: Treating Psoriasis: Mild Psoriasis: Topical Steroid
- National Psoriasis Foundation: Treating Psoriasis: Moderate to Severe Psoriasis: Biologic Drugs
