What is Psoriasis?
Patients who have psoriasis experience chronic symptoms that include red, itchy and scaly skin. These symptoms can be uncomfortable, interfering with your quality of life and self-esteem. In addition, psoriasis can be associated with other medical conditions, including psoriatic arthritis and cardiometabolic disease. At Frontier Dermatology, our providers have the experience and knowledge necessary to help psoriasis patients understand all of their treatment options and find the one that best fits their individual needs.
Psoriasis is a common chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder. Patients with psoriasis experience patches of red, itchy or scaly skin, most commonly on the knees, elbows, scalp or torso. These patches may come and go in cycles, with flare-ups lasting for weeks, months, or even years.
There are several types of psoriasis, which include:
- Plaque psoriasis
- Scalp psoriasis
- Palmoplantar psoriasis
- Nail psoriasis
- Guttate psoriasis
- Inverse and/or genital psoriasis
- Generalized pustular psoriasis
- Erythrodermic psoriasis
- Psoriatic arthritis
What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is believed to be a condition caused by immune system dysfunction leading to skin cells that regenerate at a faster than normal rate, resulting in thickened scaly red patches in patients with lighter skin tones, and reddish-brown to purplish-gray patches in those with more pigmented skin. Certain risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing psoriasis, which includes a family history of psoriasis, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and stress.
Psoriasis flare-ups are often triggered by a range of environmental or other factors. Some common psoriasis triggers include:
- Infections
- Injury
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Cold or dry weather
- Medications including lithium, blood pressure medication or antimalarial drugs
- Smoking and secondhand smoke
- Stress
- Withdrawal of oral or systemic corticosteroids
What You Should Know
We’re committed to assisting you with any inquiries you may have. Should your questions extend beyond the information provided in our FAQ section, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.
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Are their symptoms with Psoriasis?
Yes, psoriasis symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include red, inflamed patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales, itching, dryness, cracking, and in some cases, pain or bleeding. Some individuals may also experience nail changes or joint pain if they have psoriatic arthritis. If you suspect you have psoriasis, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
What are Psoriasis Treatment Options?
The diagnosis of psoriasis can usually be made by a careful skin examination, although in some cases a biopsy may be required to make an accurate diagnosis. This involves removing a small skin sample which can then be examined in a lab.
After making a psoriasis diagnosis, your provider may recommend a variety of treatment options which can include topical therapies, light therapy (phototherapy) or oral and injectable medications. Because every person is different, your provider will work with you to find the best treatment option that fits your individual goals and needs.
Topical therapy options include:
- Corticosteroids that are used for short periods to relieve acute flares
Non-steroidal creams such as aryl hydrocarbon receptor modulators, phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitors, vitamin D analogues, retinoids, and calcineurin inhibitors are often used alongside topical corticosteroids as maintenance therapy - Salicylic acid shampoos to reduce scaling on the scalp
- Coal tar, or other tar products, to reduce scaling, itching and inflammation Phototherapy (narrowband UVB)
- In-office treatment 2-3x/week
- Full-body unit
- Excimer (a hand-held device used to treat localized stubborn areas like the scalp)
- Excimer (a hand-held device used to treat localized stubborn areas like the scalp)
- Hand/foot unit
- At-home therapy (some insurances will cover an at-home device)
Oral or injected medication options include:
- Orals
- Methotrexate
- Retinoids (acitretin)
- Cyclosporine
- Otezla
- Sotytku
- Biologics
- TNF-alpha inhibitors: Humira, Enbrel, Remicade, Cimzia
- IL-12/23 inhibitors: Stelara
- IL-17 inhibitors: Cosentyx, Taltz, Siliq, Bimzelx
- IL-23 inhibitors: Tremfya, Skyrizi, Ilumya
In addition to these treatment options, your provider is likely to suggest at-home routine options that can help you best prevent future psoriasis flares. This can include habits such as bathing daily, moisturizing effectively and frequently, covering plaques and otherwise affected areas. Your provider may also recommend avoiding alcohol and maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle, prioritizing a balanced diet and routine exercise. Finally, identifying your psoriasis triggers
Frontier Dermatology combines cutting-edge research and advanced treatments with a patient-first philosophy. Whether you need treatment for chronic skin conditions, a thorough skin cancer screening, or expert Mohs surgery, our trusted providers deliver exceptional outcomes. Visit one of our Pacific Northwest locations to experience the highest standard of medical dermatology. We welcome patients from Tacoma, Seattle, Portland, and the surrounding areas of the Pacific Northwest. Contact us today by calling (360) 243-5167.