Psoriasis
Treatments for psoriasis flare-ups
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder characterized by raised lesions with silvery scale that most often occur on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back. It can range from a very mild, hardly noticeable rash to a severe eruption that covers large areas of the body. In some patients, psoriasis causes nail changes and joint pain (psoriatic arthritis). Psoriasis affects 2% of people and is not contagious, but may be inherited.
The cause of psoriasis is not fully understood but has to do with a hyperactivity of white blood cells (T-cells) that trigger inflammation in the skin and cause increased turnover. The skin starts to “pile up” in certain areas resulting in the lesions of psoriasis. Flares of psoriasis may occur in the winter, during times of stress, after trauma to the skin (this is called a Koebner Phenomenon), after an infection like strep throat, and with certain drugs such as beta-blockers, lithium and anti-seizure medications.
Treatment of psoriasis depends on a patient’s overall health, presence of joint pain and severity of skin involvement. In mild cases, topical corticosteroids and vitamin D analogues are prescribed. Targeted excimer or full body narrowband UVB is usually helpful for those with more resistant or extensive skin disease. For patients who do not respond to phototherapy or who have psoriatic arthritis, immunosuppressive and biologic medications are an option.
Psoriasis is not curable but is controllable. No single approach works for everyone. Therapy is individually tailored and based on your health, goals, and a careful assessment of potential risks and benefits of treatment.
Learn more about psoriasis on aad.org.
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To learn more about psoriasis treatment options, contact Spring Street Dermatology in SOHO, Tribeca, and Uptown, NYC to schedule a consultation. You can also schedule an appointment online here.
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Rosacea
Rosacea is a common skin disease that causes redness and red pimple-like breakouts on the face. It begins with a tendency toward “flushing and blushing” and may then progress to a persistent redness of the central face.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that occurs when something that touches skin causes a rash. It can happen immediately or appear up to several weeks later.
Acne
Acne is a skin condition with blackheads, whiteheads, red pimples and cysts. It usually affects the face, but can also involve the upper body. Acne affects people of all ages and in some, can leave dark marks or pitted scars.
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