Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic condition that can be seen on the skin, scalp and nails. It may be associated with arthritis. It can also be related to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, depression and obesity.
Psoriasis appears as very well-defined red patches with overlying scale, usually seen on elbows and knees. Sometimes psoriasis can occur in folds or creases of skin, such as the genital and armpit areas.
The Skin Company approach:
Assessment:
Our treatment approach begins with a clinical examination. This involves looking at your nails, skin and scalp. A scoring index has been developed, referred to as ‘The PASI Score’, to help with this. The PASI score is the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. This helps us to assess the severity and amount of your body surface area involved. The PASI score is used to assess your response to the treatment.
Treatment:
Psoriasis can be treated in a number of ways including creams, light therapy, and medications. More recently, biologic medications have become available.
The Skin Company treatment options are listed below.
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Topical treatments involve the application of creams, ointments, and gels. This approach is used for patients who usually have only a small area of their skin involved. These can be very effective options and include steroid and Vitamin D creams. Moisturisers are very important, in combination with the topical treatments prescribed, as is using a soap-free wash.
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Narrow band phototherapy is a very safe and effective treatment for psoriasis. This option is used when a larger area of the body is involved. Usually, a 6-12 week course is required, with 2-3 treatments each week. If your assessment proves to be a good match for this treatment option, you will be referred.
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For moderate to severe psoriasis, tablet-form options including immunosuppressive medications such as: Methotrexate, Acitretin (a vitamin A derivative), Cyclosporin or Mycophenolate, may be required.
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Biologic therapies target the immune system and are a relatively new approach to managing psoriasis.
There are strict guidelines for the implementation of this treatment and it will not be considered unless at least three previous psoriasis therapies have been attempted and were found to be unsuccessful. There are many biological therapy options currently available and these can be life changing.