Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling on the skin’s surface. The buildup of skin cells forms thick, red patches covered with silvery scales that can be itchy, dry, and sometimes painful. Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body, though it most commonly is found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it involves an overactive immune system that speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells. Environmental factors, genetics, and immune system responses play key roles in its development. There are several types of psoriasis. These include plaque psoriasis (the most common), guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis.
While there is no cure, various psoriasis treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected. Depending on the severity and type of psoriasis, these treatments can include topical therapies, phototherapy, systemic medications, and biologics.
To learn more about psoriasis, including medications and treatment, continue reading below for valuable insight from the Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery Institute (DCSI).
What Is the Proper Psoriasis Pronunciation?
The proper pronunciation of “psoriasis” is suh-RY-uh-sis. The “p” at the beginning of the word is silent and not pronounced. The emphasis is on the second syllable, “RY.” Understanding the correct pronunciation is helpful when discussing the condition with healthcare providers or others who may be familiar with the term.
Types of Psoriasis
As previously mentioned, there are multiple types of psoriasis, each occurring for different reasons and on various body parts.
Plaque Psoriasis
The most common form of psoriasis, characterized by thick, red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales. These plaques typically appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.
Guttate Psoriasis
Marked by small, drop-shaped lesions on the skin, often triggered by a bacterial infection like strep throat. It commonly appears on the trunk, arms, and legs.
Inverse Psoriasis
Affects skin folds, such as under the breasts, in the groin, or around the buttocks. It causes smooth, red, inflamed patches without the typical scales of plaque psoriasis.
Pustular Psoriasis
Characterized by white pustules (blisters of noninfectious pus) surrounded by red skin. It can be localized to specific areas, such as the hands and feet, or spread over larger areas.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis
A severe and rare form of psoriasis that leads to widespread redness, covering large portions of the body. It can cause intense itching, pain, and skin shedding, requiring immediate medical attention due to its potential severity.
Is Psoriasis a Microbial Infection?
Psoriasis is not a microbial infection. It is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to rapid skin cell turnover. This results in the buildup of skin cells on the surface, forming red, scaly patches that can be itchy or painful. Unlike infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, psoriasis is not contagious and does not involve microbial pathogens. Genetic and environmental factors, such as stress, injury, or certain medications, primarily drive it.
What Is the Difference Between Psoriasis, Eczema, and Warts?
Psoriasis, eczema, and warts are distinct skin conditions with different causes and manifestations.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that leads to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin.
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory condition characterized by dry, itchy, and red patches, often triggered by environmental factors or allergens.
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and appear as small, rough growths on the skin. Unlike psoriasis and eczema, warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact.
How Can You Tell If It’s Psoriasis or Ringworm?
Psoriasis and ringworm can sometimes look similar but have different causes and characteristics. Psoriasis typically presents as thick, red, scaly patches that may be itchy or painful and often occur on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Ringworm, a fungal infection, appears as a red, circular rash with a clear center and raised edges, often forming a ring-like shape. Ringworm is usually itchy and can spread through contact with infected individuals or animals. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose the condition based on its appearance and may perform a skin scraping or biopsy if needed.
What Is the Connection Between Rosacea and Psoriasis?
Both rosacea and psoriasis are chronic inflammatory skin conditions, but they affect the skin differently and have distinct causes. Rosacea primarily affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps. On the other hand, psoriasis can occur on various parts of the body and is characterized by red, scaly patches.
While the exact connection between the two conditions is not fully understood, some individuals may have both rosacea and psoriasis. Both conditions involve an abnormal immune response, and having one inflammatory condition may increase the risk of developing another.
Is There a New Psoriasis Medication Available?
There are always new developments in psoriasis medications, particularly in biologics. Biologics are a class of drugs made from living organisms designed to target specific parts of the immune system that drive the inflammation and rapid skin cell turnover seen in psoriasis.
New biologics and small-molecule drugs have been developed to treat moderate to severe psoriasis, offering more options for patients who do not respond well to traditional treatments. These newer medications can be more effective and have fewer side effects than older treatments, but they may also be more expensive and require close monitoring.
Can You Get Psoriasis Treatment Shots?
Biologic injections are psoriasis treatment shots that are available for individuals with moderate to severe psoriasis. Biologics are a type of medication that targets specific parts of the immune system responsible for the inflammation and rapid skin cell turnover seen in psoriasis. These injections are usually administered under the skin and may be given weekly, biweekly, or monthly, depending on the specific medication. Biologics can be highly effective in reducing symptoms and achieving clearer skin, but they may also have potential side effects and require regular monitoring by a healthcare provider.
Can You Use Probiotics for Psoriasis?
Probiotics are being explored as a potential complementary treatment for psoriasis, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut. Some studies suggest that an imbalance in gut bacteria may contribute to inflammation and autoimmune conditions like psoriasis.
While probiotics are not a cure for psoriasis, they may help reduce inflammation and improve overall skin health when used with other treatments. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Is Triamcinolone Acetonide Used for Psoriasis?
Triamcinolone acetonide is a prescription corticosteroid commonly used to treat psoriasis. It helps reduce inflammation, itching, and redness associated with psoriasis by suppressing the immune response in the affected area. The pros of triamcinolone acetonide include its effectiveness in quickly alleviating symptoms and its ease of application as a cream, ointment, or injection.
However, the cons include potential side effects such as skin thinning or peeling, stretch marks, and possible systemic absorption leading to hormonal imbalances. Long-term use can also reduce effectiveness, so it is usually prescribed for short-term use or for flare-ups.
Does CeraVe Psoriasis Cream Work?
CeraVe Psoriasis Moisturizing Cream was formulated to help manage the symptoms of psoriasis, including dryness, scaling, and itching. The cream contains salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate the skin and reduce the buildup of dead skin cells, and urea, which moisturizes and softens the skin. It also includes ceramides, which help restore the skin’s natural barrier, and niacinamide, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
Many people with psoriasis find CeraVe Psoriasis Moisturizing Cream effective in managing their symptoms, particularly in reducing scaling and itching. However, it is typically used as part of a broader treatment plan rather than as a standalone therapy.
What Is Aquaphor and Does It Help Psoriasis?
Aquaphor is a brand of healing ointment that acts as a skin protectant by creating a barrier over the skin to lock in moisture and promote healing. While Aquaphor is not specifically a psoriasis treatment, it can help manage the condition by moisturizing dry, cracked skin and providing relief from itching and irritation. By keeping the skin hydrated, Aquaphor can help reduce the appearance of scaling and soothe inflamed areas. It is often used with other psoriasis treatments to improve skin hydration and overall comfort.
Can You Use Castor Oil for Psoriasis?
Castor oil is sometimes used as a natural remedy for psoriasis due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help soften and hydrate the skin, reduce the appearance of scales, and relieve itching. Some people with psoriasis apply castor oil directly to affected areas or use it as a carrier oil with other essential oils known for their skin-soothing properties.
While castor oil can benefit some individuals, it is not a cure for psoriasis and should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using natural remedies.
Is There Special Psoriasis Soap?
Special soaps are formulated specifically for people with psoriasis. These soaps are designed to be gentle on sensitive skin and often contain ingredients like salicylic acid, coal tar, or oatmeal, which can help reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation. Psoriasis soaps are typically free of harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that can irritate the skin.
A specialized soap can help manage psoriasis symptoms by keeping the skin clean and reducing the buildup of dead skin cells. However, using these soaps as part of a broader skincare routine, including moisturizing and other treatments, is important.
Can You Get Psoriasis Scars?
Psoriasis can lead to scarring, particularly if the skin lesions are severe or the affected areas are scratched or picked at. After a flare-up has healed, psoriasis scars may appear as dark or light patches, raised areas, or indentations on the skin. The risk of scarring is higher in cases of plaque psoriasis or when the lesions are left untreated.
It is important to manage psoriasis effectively, avoid scratching, and seek treatment early to minimize the risk of scarring. In some cases, treatments like laser therapy or topical medications may help reduce the appearance of scars.
DCSI
Do you believe that you or a member of your family has psoriasis? If so, getting a professional diagnosis is integral in properly treating this condition. Dr. Mounir M. Wassef and the team at DCSI have years of experience with psoriasis and other common skin conditions. They’ve already helped countless others and are here to help you.
Contact DCSI online today. We can schedule an appointment for you to see our dermatologist and get the healthy skin you’ve been looking for.
Read our dermatologist blog to learn more about DCSI and how we can help. If you are looking for specific definitions, view our DCSI glossary. These provide great information about and more. Call our Wellington office or give our Delray office a buzz, and let DCSI help you achieve healthy skin.
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