psoriasis 5

Psoriasis: An Immune-Mediated Disease

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that causes inflammation in the body, leading to visible signs such as raised plaques and scales on the skin [1]. This condition affects people of all ages, even children, and can cause significant discomfort and distress.

The symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Raised plaques of inflamed, red skin
• Scales on the skin that can "flake off"
• Itching or burning sensations on the affected areas

Psoriasis is a chronic condition, meaning it persists over time and can flare up periodically. The exact cause of psoriasis is unclear, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal immune response [1].

References:

[1] - Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that causes inflammation in the body, leading to visible signs such as raised plaques and scales on the skin (Source: #5)

Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms

Psoriasis typically causes flaky patches of skin, which form silvery-white or grey scales. Some people find their psoriasis causes itching or soreness.

• Flaky patches of skin with silvery-white or grey scales [5]
• Itching or soreness in some cases [5]

It's worth noting that the symptoms of psoriasis can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all of these signs. However, flaky patches of skin are a common symptom of psoriasis.

References:

[5] Psoriasis is a chronic disease where skin cells build up quickly, typically causing red or discolored, scaly, and itchy patches on the skin. It ...

Diagnostic Tests for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes scaly, inflamed patches of skin. Diagnosing psoriasis can be done through various tests and examinations. Here are some of the diagnostic tests used to diagnose psoriasis:

• Physical Exam: A physical exam by a dermatologist or primary care doctor can help identify signs of psoriasis on the skin, scalp, and nails.
• Skin Biopsy: A skin biopsy involves removing a small sample of skin tissue from the affected area for laboratory testing. This test can help distinguish psoriasis from other causes of rashes, such as eczema.

According to [5], these tests can also help diagnose psoriatic arthritis and treatment side effects. It's essential to note that a physical exam and skin biopsy are not always necessary, but they can provide more accurate results in some cases.

References:

• A physical exam and skin biopsy can test for and diagnose psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that speeds up the growth of skin cells and causes raised, thick patches on the body. These tests can also help identify other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms. [6]
• To confirm a psoriasis diagnosis, your healthcare provider will check your skin and scalp for thick, red, scaly patches and other rashes. They also look for changes in your fingernails. Your family and medical history are also essential. Issues like whether you had a recent illness, are under stress, or have a family history of psoriasis can be relevant factors. [13]

Treatment Options for Psoriasis

Psoriasis can be effectively treated using various medications, depending on the severity and location of the condition. Here are some common treatment options:

• Topical corticosteroids: These creams or ointments are commonly used to treat mild to moderate psoriasis in most areas of the body [4]. They work by reducing inflammation and plaque formation.
• Light therapy: Exposure to specific wavelengths of light, such as ultraviolet B (UVB) or narrowband UVB, can help slow down skin cell growth and reduce symptoms [2].
• Oral or injected medications: These include corticosteroids, retinoids, biologics (such as apremilast), and others. They are often used to treat more severe cases of psoriasis or when topical treatments are not effective [1].

Systemic Treatments

For moderate to severe psoriasis, systemic treatments may be prescribed to slow down the entire immune system. These include:

• Immunosuppressants: Drugs that suppress the immune system can help reduce inflammation and prevent further skin cell growth [11].
• Biologics: Injected medications that target specific proteins involved in the immune response can also be effective in treating moderate to severe psoriasis [9].

New Treatment Options

Recent advances in treatment options include:

• Spesolimab-sbzo (Spevigo): An interleukin-36 receptor antagonist approved specifically for the treatment of generalized pustular psoriasis [14].
• Infliximab, bimekizumab, ixekizumab, and risankizumab: Biologics that have been shown to be effective in treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis [7].

It's essential to consult a dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific case of psoriasis. They can help you choose the most suitable option based on the severity and location of your condition, as well as any other health factors that may affect your treatment.

Differential Diagnosis of Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a common chronic inflammatory skin disease, can be challenging to diagnose due to its various clinical manifestations. When considering the differential diagnosis of psoriasis, several conditions must be ruled out.

• Papulosquamous disorders: Conditions such as pityriasis lichenoides chronica and secondary syphilis can present with similar symptoms to psoriasis.
• Eczema: Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema can mimic the appearance of psoriatic plaques.
• Contact dermatitis: This condition can cause skin irritation and inflammation, which may be mistaken for psoriasis.
• Lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory disease that affects the skin and mucous membranes, lichen planus can present with similar symptoms to psoriasis.

Key Points

• Psoriasis is a complex disease with various clinical manifestations.
• Differential diagnosis includes papulosquamous disorders, eczema, contact dermatitis, and lichen planus.
• Accurate diagnosis requires careful consideration of the patient's medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.

References

[5] This page checks if javascript and session cookies are enabled [8] by P Lisi · 2007 · Cited by 49 — The principal differential diagnosis includes some papulosquamous or erythematosquamous disor- ders, such as pityriasis lichenoides chronica, sec- ondary ...