What your dermatologist wants you to know about psoriasis

If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis, you know it can be more than just a bothersome skin condition. It’s a chronic, autoimmune disease that can impact your quality of life in many ways. Here’s what you need to know about psoriasis.

What is psoriasis?

Our team describes Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that results in the overproduction of skin cells. When this happens, it leads to raised, red patches of skin covered with white or silver scales. Psoriasis typically affects the knees, elbows, and scalp, but it can occur anywhere on the body.

What causes psoriasis?

Currently, the exact cause of psoriasis is not known, though it is believed to be the cause of a combination of both genetic and environmental factors.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

In addition to the raised, red patches of skin covered with white or silver scales, other symptoms of psoriasis can include:

• Joint pain
• Fatigue
• Dry, cracked skin that bleeds easily
• Nails that are thickened, pitted or crumbled

What are the different types of psoriasis?

There are five primary types of psoriasis that one can be diagnosed with, including plaque, guttate, pustular, inverse, and erythrodermic.

• Plaque. Plaque psoriasis is the most common variety, characterized by raised, red patches of skin covered with white or silver scales.
• Guttate. Guttate psoriasis is characterized by small, drop-shaped lesions on the skin.
• Pustular. Pustular psoriasis is characterized by raised, red bumps that are filled with pus.
• Inverse. Inverse psoriasis affects the skin in the folds of the body, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts.
• Erythrodermic. Erythrodermic psoriasis is rare and a more severe type of psoriasis that covers the entire body with a red, peeling rash.

How is psoriasis treated?

There is currently no known cure for this skin condition, but there are many treatment options available to help in managing its symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options can include topical treatments, phototherapy, oral medications, and injectable biologics.

Schedule an appointment with our team of providers today!

If you think you might have psoriasis, speak to the doctor at Dermatology Treatment and Research Center of Dallas, TX, about treatment options. With the right treatment, you will effectively manage your symptoms and live a full, healthy life free from embarrassment. Call 972-661-2729 to schedule a visit with Drs. Clay Cockerell, and Ross Radusky.