psoriasis 12

Psoriasis Overview

Psoriasis is a chronic (long-lasting) disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly. This leads to patches of skin becoming scaly and inflamed, most often on the scalp, elbows, or knees, but other parts of the body can be affected as well.

Key Characteristics:

• Chronic condition
• Overactive immune system
• Skin cells multiply too quickly
• Patches of skin become scaly and inflamed
• Commonly affects the scalp, elbows, or knees

[12]

Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes scaly, dry, or itchy skin. The symptoms can vary depending on the type of psoriasis you have.

• Scaly patches: One of the most common signs of psoriasis are scaly patches on the skin, which can be red, brown, gray, or purple in color.
• Dryness and itchiness: Psoriasis can cause dryness and itchiness on the affected areas, making it uncomfortable for those who have it.
• Cracks (fissures): In some cases, psoriasis can cause cracks or fissures on the skin, which can be painful and bleed.
• Bleeding: Bleeding is a possible symptom of psoriasis, especially if the condition has progressed to a more severe stage.

It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. They will examine your affected areas, ask about your symptoms, family history, and provide guidance on managing the condition.

References:

• [10] - Symptoms of plaque psoriasis include: Raised, discolored (red, brown, gray or purple) plaques with a white or silvery surface.
• [11] - Cracks (fissures). Bleeding.
• [12] - Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes scaly, dry, or itchy skin.

Diagnostic Tests for Psoriasis

Psoriasis can be diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and sometimes, additional tests.

• Physical Examination: A dermatologist examines the skin, scalp, and nails to look for signs of psoriasis. This is usually the first step in diagnosing the condition [1][2].
• Skin Biopsy: In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes. This is especially true for pustular forms of psoriasis, which can be difficult to recognize clinically [3][4].
• Blood Tests: While there are no blood tests that can specifically diagnose psoriasis, doctors may order blood tests to check for treatment side effects or signs of psoriatic arthritis, a joint condition that affects some people with psoriasis [5][6].

It's worth noting that the diagnosis of psoriasis is primarily based on clinical presentation and physical examination. Blood tests and biopsies are usually only used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.

References: [1] Context result 2 [2] Context result 4 [3] Context result 5 [4] Context result 8 [5] Context result 7 [6] Context result 9

Systemic Treatments for Psoriasis

According to various sources, systemic treatments are considered when other treatments don't work or if you have moderate to severe psoriasis. These treatments involve drugs that slow down your entire immune system.

• Immunosuppressants: If other treatments don't work, your doctor might give you immunosuppressant drugs to slow down your entire immune system.

Differential Diagnosis of Psoriasis

Psoriasis has to be differentiated from several conditions, including:

• Tinea corporis (dermatophyte fungal infection): This is a type of fungal infection that can cause scaly patches on the skin. It's essential to differentiate psoriasis from tinea corporis, as they have different treatments.
• Eczema: Eczema and psoriasis can coexist in some patients, making differential diagnosis crucial.
• ILVEN (Ichthyosis Linearis Vyrilis): This is a rare genetic disorder that can cause scaly skin patches. ILVEN should be differentiated from Blaschko linear psoriasis.
• Squamous cell carcinoma in situ: In chronic plaques that resist treatment, squamous cell carcinoma in situ may need to be ruled out.
• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that can cause scaly skin patches. It's essential to differentiate cutaneous T-cell lymphoma from psoriasis.

These differential diagnoses are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment of psoriasis. [12][13][14]