There are several forms of psoriasis. Psoriasis Vulgaris (common psoriasis) is a hereditary disorder affecting skin, nails, and joints. It usually appears as uncomfortable pink/red patches on the skin that are thickened and have a silvery scaly surface due to the rapid growth of skin cells. A small percentage of people with psoriasis also experience joint pain. The most common areas for psoriasis plaques are the scalp, elbows and knees but it can occur anywhere on the skin. It is most often a chronic condition which means it will never go away completely and it is usually characterized by recurrent flares and remissions. Approximately 150,000 new cases of psoriasis are diagnosed each year in 16 to 60 year olds, equally affecting both men and women and it is estimated that 2% of the population of western countries suffers from this disease.

Effective control of psoriasis may involve a combination of treatments. Our experienced healthcare staff carefully assess each patient and formulate a plan of care consistent with disease activity, patient tolerance and response to treatments as well as individual time, travel, and budget allowances.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Skin Care Products
Skin care products and shampoos containing emollients, tar, or zinc can be helpful on their own or in combination with other treatment modalities. We carry many high-quality creams and shampoos in our cosmeceutical pharmacy for the convenience of our psoriasis patients.



Prescription Medications
Steroid (cortisone) creams, ointments, gels, and lotions may be prescribed for application to the skin and can control psoriasis very well for many patients. There are many strengths and formulations available, and costs are variable. Sometimes psoriasis can become less responsive to these medications after a period of time and it is very important to follow prescribed directions regarding frequency and location of application. In-office injections of cortisone given just under the skin into the plaque itself can be very effective for some patients. There are also systemic medications available for severe cases of psoriasis, or if there is joint involvement, but these are considered only after other treatment options have been exhausted as they may have serious potential side effects.

Light Therapy
The rapid growth of skin cells can be curtailed with the use of sunlight and/or ultraviolet light therapy. Some dermatology clinics have special UV light treatment equipment available for in-office treatments and occasionally limited sun exposure or tanning beds may benefit a patient but these should not ever be self-prescribed. The risks of light therapy are significant and include skin cancer, eye damage, burns, freckling and premature skin aging.

Cynosure V-Star Pulse Dye Laser Treatments
This laser is specifically approved for the treatment of psoriasis by the Food and Drug Administration. These treatments, delivered by Dr. Young, are ideal for treating stable, localized psoriasis plaques. The V-Star destroys the small vessels that support the growth of the plaque and targets the associated inflammation. Laser treatments are quite popular in our clinic and are usually quick and well-tolerated. Unlike light therapy, only the plaques are targeted which spares normal skin from side-effects. Periods of remission of up to 14 months have been documented with this innovative therapy.