Diagnosis and Treatment of Psoriasis

Diagnosis and Treatment of Psoriasis (Psoriatic Disease)

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes redness, thick scaling, and plaque-like lesions due to the rapid accumulation of skin cells. Linked to genetic predisposition, this disease progresses through periods of flare-ups and remission. It can also affect joints and nails besides the skin.

Causes and Risk Factors of Psoriasis

• Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of psoriasis are at higher risk.
• Immune System Disorders: The immune system attacks healthy skin cells, leading to rapid accumulation of skin cells.
• Stress and Psychological Factors: Stress can trigger flare-ups.
• Infections: Conditions such as upper respiratory infections can trigger the disease.
• Medications: Some drugs like beta-blockers and lithium can worsen the disease.
• Environmental Factors: Cold weather, smoking, and alcohol consumption can negatively affect the course of the disease.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

• Redness and Scaling: Thick red plaques covered with white scales are common.
• Common Areas of Plaque: Elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, and back.
• Itching and Pain: Discomfort in the skin is widespread.
• Nail Involvement: Pitting, thickening, and discoloration of the nails may occur.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: Some patients may experience joint pain and stiffness.

Types of Psoriasis

• Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form; appears as thick, scaly plaques.
• Guttate Psoriasis: Manifests as small, red, drop-shaped lesions.
• Inverse Psoriasis: Appears in skin folds (groin, armpits).
• Pustular Psoriasis: Characterized by small pus-filled blisters.
• Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A rare but serious form where large areas of the skin become red and scaly.

Diagnosis Methods for Psoriasis

• Clinical Examination: A dermatologist diagnoses psoriasis by examining the appearance and distribution of plaques.
• Dermatoscopy: Used for detailed examination of plaques.
• Biopsy: A small sample is taken from the lesions for microscopic examination.
• Blood Tests: Additional evaluations are made if psoriatic arthritis is suspected.

Psoriasis Treatment Methods

1. Topical Treatments (Creams and Ointments)

• Corticosteroid Creams: Reduce redness and inflammation.
• Vitamin D Analogues: Slow down cell growth (e.g., Calcipotriol).
• Salicylic Acid: Used to reduce scaling.
• Coal Tar Shampoos: Effective for scalp involvement.

2. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

• UVB Phototherapy: Slows the growth of skin cells.
• PUVA Therapy: Combines UVA light with the drug psoralen.

3. Systemic Treatment

• Methotrexate: Suppresses the immune system and is used for severe cases.
• Ciclosporin: Reduces skin symptoms with its immunosuppressive effect.
• Retinoids: Regulate cell growth.

4. Biological Treatment

• TNF-α Inhibitors (Adalimumab, Infliximab): Target specific parts of the immune system.
• IL-17 or IL-23 Inhibitors: A more specific type of biological therapy.

Lifestyle Recommendations and Supportive Therapy

• Balanced Diet: A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin D is recommended.
• Stress Management: Methods like yoga and meditation should be used to control stress.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: They can worsen psoriasis.
• Regular Moisturizing: Keeping the skin moisturized helps alleviate symptoms.
• Sun Protection: Excessive sun exposure should be avoided, but controlled sun exposure can be beneficial.

For detailed information and your questions, you can contact us via E-mail. If you prefer, you can follow us on our Instagram page.