Psoriasis

What is it?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition causing areas of skin to become raised, red and scaly. Any area of the skin can be involved including the face and scalp. The most common body areas to be affected are the elbows, knees and scalp. The nails and joints can also be affected. It is not catching.

What causes it?

Most people with psoriasis have a genetic tendency, that is they are more likely that other people to have a relative with it, although many people with psoriasis don't know anybody in the family with the condition.

Other factors are known to worsen psoriasis, these are stress, alcohol and in some cases smoking.

Some people find that sore throats cause their psoriasis to flare up.

What types of psoriasis are there?

Chronic plaque psoriasis
This is the most common form. Well defined plaques of psoriasis that tend not to progress very rapidly commonly affect the elbows, knees and scalp. Other areas of the body can also be involved.

Guttate psoriasis
Otherwise known as 'raindrop' psoriasis due to the small size of each patch of psoriasis - like many little raindrops. This form is often seen in children and young adults and can be associated with sore throats.

Plantar/palmar psoriasis
This affects the palms and soles and appears as little pus filled blisters. These are not actually infected although they can appear so. This form is strongly linked to smoking.

Erythrodermic/generalised pustular psoriasis
These are sever forms and can cause involvement of large amounts of skin sometimes with pus filled blisters. Admission to hospital may be required.

What forms of treatment are available?
Emollients - moisturisers. These help soften the scaly areas. Vitamin C creams - eg Dovonex. Help thin patches of psoriasis Steroid creams - these are sometimes used with other treatments to reduce inflammation in psoriasis. They are also the best treatment for psoriasis affecting the face, but in weaker strengths. Light treatment - there are two forms of light treatment available at the Skin Unit, UVA and UVB. These are usually given 2-3 times a week Coal Tar - this is often used on the ward. It can be used at home but is a little messy Dithranol - this is usually applied for one hour and is available in different strengths. Care must be taken not to irritate the surrounding normal skin. Tablet treatments - there are several tablet treatments used by the Dermatologist. If you require these your Dermatologist will discuss their use and side effects in detail.