Common Skin Conditions > Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a persistent skin disease that got its name from the Greek word for "itch". The skin becomes inflamed, producing red, thickened areas with silvery scales, most often on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back.
Psoriasis cannot be passed from one person to another, though it is considered to be a familial hereditary type disease.
Types of psoriasis:
Psoriasis comes in many forms. Each differs in how bad it is, how long it lasts, where it is, and in the shape and pattern of the scales. The most common form begins with little red bumps. Gradually these bumps grow larger and scales form. The top scales flake off easily and often but the scales below the surface stick together. When they are removed, the tender, exposed skin bleeds. These small red areas then grow, sometimes becoming quite large.
About 7% of psoriasis patients also have arthritis, which fortunately, is not too severe in most people. In some people however, the arthritis is worst when the skin is very involved. Sometimes the arthritis improves when the condition of the patient's skin improves.
How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?
Dermatologists diagnose psoriasis by examining the skin, nails, and scalp. They may need to do a skin biopsy to examine the tissue under the microscope.
How is Psoriasis Treated?
Treatment of psoriasis is based on the patient's health, age, lifestyle, and the severity of the psoriasis. The goal is to reduce inflammation and to slow down rapid skin cell division. Moisturizing creams and lotions loosen scales and help control itching. Special diets have not been successful in treating psoriasis. Your dermatologist may prescribe medications to apply on the skin containing cortisone, cortisone-like compounds, synthetic Vitamin D, tar, or anthralin. These may be used in combination with natural sunlight or ultraviolet light. The most severe forms or psoriasis may require oral medications, with or without light treatment
Sunlight exposure helps the majority of people with psoriasis but is must be used cautiously. Ultraviolet light therapy may be given in a dermatologist's office, a psoriasis treatment center or a hospital.
New therapies under investigation include "biologic agents" that attack the abnormal immune cells that lend to psoriasis.
Your Dermatologist will decide which treatment fits you best.
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