Psoriasis can represent some mild itching and occasional soreness, to others it can be a devastating disfiguring condition. Affecting up to 3% of Americans, recently approved medications and treatments may help turn the corner on this widespread chronic skin disease.

The Facts

Psoriasis is a long-term skin disorder that can affect any age but commonly seems to begin around age 20. It is characterized by red patches covered by silver-colored scaling. Commonly it is located on the elbows, trunk, knees, and scalp areas. Its appearance is thought to be due to quickly growing skin cell cycles. Certain types of psoriasis can also affect fingernails and toenails, as well as skin creases such as armpits.

Treatment of Psoriasis

Some may be familiar with the ultraviolet light rooms that are still an essential part in treating psoriasis. However most physicians agree that topical corticosteroid creams are often the first-line of treatment for most psoriasis suffers. Phototherapy utilizes a combination of medications and ultraviolet light aimed at delaying the growth of psoriasis. A medication known as Psoralens (methoxsalen) is sometimes given orally to sensitize the patient to UV light.

Other medications that have been used include Tazorac (Tazarotene), which is a cosmetic gel used as an alternative to steroid creams. Dovonex (Calcipotriene) is an exciting new medication that is related to Vitamin D, which can help suppress psoriasis and can also be used in addition to topical steroids. For severe psoriasis, methotrexate and anti-cancer drug known as cyclosporine are available. These medications are reserved for severe psoriasis due to a large number of potential side effects.

Psoriasis treatment may require one or a number of medications. It is often a process of trial and error. It is important to maintain appropriate communication with yourself or your dermatologist to see which medications work for you.

What You Can Do

The key in treating psoriasis is education, not only for yourself but also for your family members. For some, you may find a potential disfiguring disease comfortable to others, so it is important to know everything you can for the disease. As psoriasis is often exacerbated by dry skin, frequent use of moisturizers is central to any treatment of psoriasis. For mild flare-ups, over the counter steroid creams can be applied for a few weeks. Get healthy doses of UV sunlight, but be careful to avoid sunburns. And avoid picking or scratching psoriatic patches, you will only make it worse.

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