Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disorder affecting about 1 in 40 people. The cause is not known, but environmental and hereditary factors may play a role. A normal skin cell matures in 28 to 30 days and sheds from the skin. In Psoriasis, skin cells mature in four days and heap up to form silvery scaled lesions. The most commonly involved areas are the scalp, elbows, and knees, but any part of the body, including the nails, palms, and soles may be involved. Psoriasis can flare with changes in the weather, stress, smoking, and alcohol.

How to control Psoriasis?

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for psoriasis. However, there are many treatment options. Our experienced dermatology provider can work with you to find the right treatment plan to help control your psoriasis.

Topical Treatments

Oral Medications

Oral therapy can be used to control severe psoriasis. Three main medications are used: Acitretin (Soriatane), Methotrexate, and Cyclosporine. Each requires close clinical supervision and blood monitoring.

Biologics

These suppressants of psoriasis inflammation are available to create prolonged remission from psoriasis. Most of these medications are injected at home by the patient.  Some are administered in the office by injection or infusion. They are meant for patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, or those with psoriatic arthritis. Most require routine lab monitoring and follow-up appointments with our provider. 

Examples of biologics that are prescribed in our office include Enbrel, Humira, Stelara, Taltz, Cosentyx, Skyrizi, Tremfya, Ilumya, Otezla, Cimzia, and Remicade.  Ask our dermatology provider if you are a candidate for one of these treatments.

To find out what the best treatment is for you, make an appointment with us today.