PSORIASIS
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects 1.5 to 2% of the population. It is a hereditary condition that appears as chronic recurring
scaling patches at various areas of the body. There are many forms of psoriasis, the most common one being psoriasis vulgaris affecting the elbows,
knees, scalps, lower back and genital area. Other subsets of psoriasis include guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis. Streptococcal
pharyngitis can stimulate a guttate type of psoriasis.
Psoriasis has a bimodal age distribution, which means that it can occur in the 20s or in the 50s. It can be associated with arthritis of the joints. Other serious conditions associated with psoriasis include heart disease and obesity. There can be many triggering factors, including infections, stress and medications. Alcohol and smoking can exacerbate the condition, whereas sunlight and UV light will tend to make psoriasis go into remission.
There are many treatment options including topical creams such as steroids or calcipotriene (Dovonex), oral medication including methotrexate or Acitretin (Soriatane), phototherapy, and biologics such as Enbrel, Humira or Remicade. Every psoriasis patient is unique, so a customized treatment plan by a dermatologist is necessary to keep it under control.
Dr. Behnam is a member of the National Psoriasis Foundation.
Psoriasis research articles published by Dr. Behnam.
