psoriasis 13

Psoriasis: A Chronic Autoimmune Condition

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaly, dry, or itchy patches on your skin [12]. This condition occurs when the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly [13].

The symptoms of psoriasis can vary in severity and may include:

• Scaly, dry, or itchy patches on the skin
• Redness and inflammation around the affected areas
• Patches of abnormal skin that are pink, red, or purple
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed or ooze

Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, but it most commonly appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, and genital area [10]. The condition can be triggered by various factors, including injury to the skin, stress, and certain medications.

It's essential to note that psoriasis is a noncontagious condition, meaning you cannot catch it from someone else. However, if you have psoriasis, you may experience flare-ups or periods of remission [11].

References:

• [12] Overview of Psoriasis
• [13] Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells...

Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes scaly, dry, or itchy skin. The symptoms can vary depending on the type and area affected.

• Raised plaques and scales: These are the most common signs of psoriasis, occurring due to the immune system's malfunction and inflammation throughout the body, leading to skin cell overgrowth.
• Heel pain: Some people may experience pain in their heels, which can be a symptom of psoriasis.
• Swelling in your leg: Swelling in the legs is another possible sign of psoriasis.
• Stiffness: Stiffness in the joints and surrounding areas can also occur due to psoriasis.

According to [13], these symptoms can vary depending on the type of psoriasis. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

References:

• [13] - Psoriasis symptoms vary depending on the type of psoriasis. Learn the different symptoms for the various types of psoriasis. ... Other signs include heel pain, swelling in your leg, and stiffness...

Diagnostic Tests for Psoriasis

Psoriasis diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and sometimes additional tests to confirm the condition. Here are some diagnostic tests used to diagnose psoriasis:

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam by a dermatologist or primary care doctor is usually the first step in diagnosing psoriasis. They will examine your skin, scalp, and nails for signs of the condition.
• Biopsy: A biopsy may be performed to confirm a psoriasis diagnosis. In this test, a small sample of skin tissue is removed from the affected area and examined under a microscope.
• Medical History: Your doctor will ask questions about your health history, medical history, and family history to determine if you have any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Tests Not Used for Psoriasis Diagnosis

• Blood tests: There are no blood tests that can diagnose psoriasis. However, blood tests may be used to rule out other conditions or monitor treatment side effects.
• Imaging tests: Medical imaging is not typically used in the diagnostic process for psoriasis.

Other Tests May Be Used to Monitor Treatment Side Effects

• CBC (Complete Blood Count) count
• Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)/creatinine
• Liver function tests (LFTs)
• Hepatitis panel
• Tuberculosis (TB) screening

These tests may be used to monitor treatment side effects or rule out other conditions, but they are not used for diagnosing psoriasis.

References

[13] Psoriasis is a chronic proliferative and inflammatory condition of the skin. It is characterized by erythematous plaques covered with silvery scales, particularly over the extensor surfaces, scalp, and lumbosacral region. The disorder can also affect the joints and eyes. Psoriasis has no cure and the disease waxes and wanes with flareups. [14] There are no blood tests that can diagnose psoriasis. However, after performing a physical examination, a doctor may order a biopsy to confirm a psoriasis diagnosis.

Oral and Injected Medications for Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a common skin condition, can be effectively treated with oral and injected medications. These treatments are often prescribed for moderate to severe cases of the disease.

• Biologic Drugs: Doctors commonly use biologic drugs on people with moderate to severe psoriasis. Biologics work by targeting specific proteins in the body that contribute to inflammation and skin cell growth.
• Oral Medications: Oral medications, such as methotrexate, can help control psoriasis by slowing down the production of skin cells and suppressing inflammation.
• Injected Medications: Injected medications, including biologics like etanercept (Enbrel) and adalimumab (Humira), are also effective in treating moderate to severe psoriasis.

These treatments have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for people with psoriasis. However, it's essential to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for individual cases.

References: * [13] Psoriasis is a common skin condition marked by patches of red, dry, and itchy skin with silvery scales. * [9] A biologic is an important treatment option for people with moderate-to-severe psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, or both. * [14] Doctors often use biologic drugs on people with moderate to severe psoriasis.

Differential Diagnoses of Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition, can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity in appearance with other dermatological conditions. Here are some key differential diagnoses for psoriasis:

• Chronic plaque psoriasis: This is the most common form of psoriasis, characterized by thick, red, and scaly patches on the skin [7].
• Guttate psoriasis: A type of psoriasis that presents as small, dot-like lesions on the skin, often triggered by a bacterial infection such as strep throat [7].
• Pustular psoriasis: A rare form of psoriasis characterized by pus-filled blisters on the skin, which can be life-threatening if left untreated [7].
• Erythrodermic psoriasis: A severe and potentially life-threatening form of psoriasis that causes widespread redness and scaling of the skin [7].

These differential diagnoses are crucial for healthcare professionals to consider when evaluating patients with suspected psoriasis. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and management of the condition.

References: [1] Jul 2, 2024 - Differential diagnoses of psoriasis include adult blepharitis,