Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that is classically characterized by thickened, red areas of skin covered with silvery scales. The extent of skin involvement can range from discrete, localized areas to generalized body involvement. The joints, nails, scalp and mucous membranes may also be affected with the disease. Some cases of psoriasis are so mild that people don't know they have it. Severe psoriasis may cover large areas of the body. Psoriasis can be physically and emotionally disabling for those who suffer from it. Fortunately, there are new types of treatments available that work well, even for the most severe cases.
Treatment
- Topical medications: there are many different types of topical medications that are applied to the skin. They are often used in combination and can provide excellent results.
- Ultraviolet light therapy
- Systemic treatments: these include internal medications that affect specific aspects of the skin or immune system that are involved in psoriasis. Examples include: methotrexate, acitretin (Soriatane), cyclosporine and newer, "biologic" agents ( i.e. Enbrel, Humira, etc.)
