Clinical Update: Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune skin disease. In psoriasis, an overproduction of CD4 helper T cells leads to rapid keratinocyte proliferation. Skin cells pile up on the surface and the characteristic psoriatic lesions, or plaques, result. These plaques are generally red and circular, with a patchy appearance, and covered with thick silver scales. They are often itchy and can be painful. A diagnosis of psoriasis is made based on patient history, appearance of lesions, and microscopic evaluation of the plaque cells.
Treatments for psoriasis are targeted toward reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. Keratolytic medications, corticosteroids, emollients, shampoos, lotions, coal tar preparations, Vitamin A derivatives, antihistamines, baths with colloidal oatmeal products, moisturizers, systemic corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are among the list of available psoriasis treatments. Ultraviolet phototherapy is often an effective nonpharmacologic treatment for psoriasis. Patients with severe psoriasis who develop psoriatic arthritis may also benefit from physical therapy and rehabilitation; joint replacement therapy may be indicated in some cases.
This Just In
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Children with psoriasis are more likely to be obese, according to this study in the Archives of Dermatology. (12/19/12)
From Our Journals
Guest Editorial: Virtual Psoriasis Symposium: A Unique Educational Format for Dermatology and Primary Care Nurses and Nurse Practitioners
Journal of the Dermatology Nurses' Association
January 2013
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