Psoriasis

What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition caused by a faulty immune system that triggers an overproduction of skin cells. With psoriasis, your skin produces new cells in a few days rather than a few weeks.

The extra skin cells pile up on the surface of your skin and create scaly, red patches. 

What are the types of psoriasis?
There are many types of psoriasis and it’s not uncommon to have more than one type.

Plaque psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common type. It causes dry, red, and raised patches of skin with silvery scales.

Guttate psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis causes small, round scaly lesions on the skin. This type of psoriasis is more common in children and teens. 

Inverse psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis develops in the folds of skin in the groin and buttocks and under the breasts, causing smooth, red patches of skin. 

Pustular psoriasis
With pustular psoriasis, you develop pus-filled lesions. This type is rare. 

Erythrodermic psoriasis
Erythrodermic psoriasis causes a red, peeling, and itchy rash over your entire body. It’s the least common type of psoriasis. 

Psoriatic arthritis
With psoriatic arthritis, you have joint pain and swelling. For many people with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis may be the first and only symptom.

How is psoriasis diagnosed?
The team at Fisher Dermatology & Aesthetics conducts an in-depth clinical exam to diagnose psoriasis. During your exam, they ask detailed questions about your symptoms and medical and family history, then examine your skin, nails, and scalp.

They may remove a sample of your affected skin and examine it under a microscope to confirm or rule out psoriasis. 

How is psoriasis treated?
Fisher Dermatology & Aesthetics offers a holistic and patient-centered approach to care. The specifics of your psoriasis treatment plan depend on the type of psoriasis you have, the severity of symptoms, your overall health, and your personal preferences.

Treatment options may include:

Corticosteroid cream

Retinoid gel or cream

Vitamin D analogues to slow skin cell growth

Calcineurin inhibitors to reduce inflammation and plaque buildup

Coal tar to treat itching and inflammation

Biologic medications that include weekly or monthly injections

To schedule your psoriasis consultation at Fisher Dermatology & Aesthetics, call or book online today.