Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, dry, and thick plaques on the skin. Psoriatic lesions develop on the skin because of faster proliferation of skin cells. Psoriasis is categorized into five types depending on location and appearance of skin lesions, namely:

• Erythrodermic psoriasis – Spreads all over the body with characteristic red skin and shed the scales in sheets
• Guttate psoriasis –Small pink spots develop on the trunk and limbs
• Inverse psoriasis – Smooth, shiny bright-red lesions develop in the regions of skin folds such as arm pits, groin, under breasts and around groin
• Plaque psoriasis – Most common form of psoriasis and is characterized by red raised plaques with silvery white scales that develop on elbows, knees, scalp and lower back
• Pustular psoriasis – Psoriasis subtype with blisters of non-infectious pus surrounded by inflamed skin

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of psoriasis involves the physical examination of the patient’s skin and sometimes skin biopsy can also be done for confirmation of the condition.

Treatment

Several options are available for treatment of psoriasis and the choice depends on the type of psoriasis, area affected, disease severity and other factors. Treatments include topical creams, systemic medications, phototherapy, or combination of the listed treatments.  It is a very exciting time for psoriasis treatment, with many new medications offering the chance for patients to become clear or almost clear of their psoriatic skin lesions.  See your dermatologist to discuss your treatment options.