Clinical Trials For Psoriasis and Psoriatic Disorders

This study will evaluate the use of Enbrel (etanercept) to treat psoriasis for a period of up to one year. Candidates 18 or older with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who are able to start Enbrel therapy as prescribed may be eligible. People with skin conditions other than psoriasis that would interfere with study evaluations, or people taking Remicade (infliximab), Humira (adalimumab) or Amevive (alefacept) will not qualify. Research sites are located throughout Canada.

Natural Treatment For Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a difficult disorder to treat. But researchers report in the American Journal of Therapeutics that they have identified a natural preparation from a plant that effectively treats mild to moderate psoriasis. The plant, Mahonia aquifolium, grows wild in North America and was used in folk medicine to treat skin diseases.
But according to an article in the American Journal of Therapeutics (March/April 2006, Volume 13, No. 2, p. 121-126), a natural preparation from a plant holds promise for psoriasis sufferers.
Steve Bernstein and other researchers from the Dermatology and Cosmetic Center in Rochester, New York conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study using a proprietary topical cream prepared with Mahonia aquifolium.
This plant, also known as the barberry, Oregon grape, or berberis, grows wild in North and South American and Europe. It was initially used in American folk medicine as an oral medication for inflammatory skin diesases including psoriasis and syphilis.
Of the 200 psoriasis patients enrolled in the trial, 97 completed the 12-week course and 74 completed the same regimen using a placebo cream.
Bernstein and his colleagues traced a statistically significant improvement of the signs and symptoms of moderate plaque psoriasis compared with patients receiving placebo. The medication was well tolerated when applied to the affected area twice a day for twelve weeks. No significant side effects were reported by either the active or control group.
The researchers concluded that the cream containing Mahonia aquifolium extract is a safe and effective treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis.

The Psychological Impact Of Plaque-Type Psoriasis

Plaque-type psoriasis is usually on elbows, knees and the lower back. The scalp is frequently involved, but psoriasis can occur on any surface of the skin including nails. Some patients develop blisters on their skin in the affected areas, and this can be very painful.
The rash of psoriasis can itch, but often it does not have symptoms. Most patients with psoriasis are embarrassed by its appearance, and they dress to hide it from others. There is a significant psychological impact of the disease as it sometimes prevents people from being hired for jobs, and it can limit social activities because other people think psoriasis patients are contagious.

Psoriasis - Know Your Triggers

(HealthDay News) -- Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that affects some 4.5 million American adults, is characterized by red, scaly skin patches. Psoriasis can appear on any part of the body, including the scalp, face, hands and feet.
Stress can be a major trigger for psoriasis, the National Psoriasis Foundation says. Taking time to relax and manage stress can help alleviate flare-ups. Any damage to the skin, including scratches or sunburn, can also trigger an outbreak.
The foundation also notes that certain medications can contribute to psoriasis symptoms, including lithium, antimalarial drugs, and certain drugs used to treat high blood pressure and arthritis. Allergies, weather and diet can also impact psoriasis.
Discuss with your doctor how to best control your symptoms.
-- Diana Kohnle

Treating Psoriasis

Remember that treating psoriasis is a mixture of both science and art, and fine-tuning may improve the outcome, even with relatively small changes. It's best to make these in close partnership with a trusted physican. A small proportion of persons with psoriasis will learn that their disease is primarily based on an allergic reaction to something. Indeed, the hope of every person with psoriasis is for a real cure, but at this writing there isn't one in sight. The clinical management of this disease remains quite complex, with much trial and error required. It's always a good idea to look into any rumored new therapy, whether you actually try it or not. And if you do try it, don't be too put off by apparent failures, or too ecstatic at what appear to be promising results. Although psoriasis is stubborn, it is also manageable. This information sets forth current opinions from recognized authorities, but it does not dictate an exclusive treatment course. Persons with questions about a medical condition should consult a physician who is knowledgeable about that condition.

Dietary Changes May Help Control Psoriasis

Two dietary elements that have proven results are flax seed and sea cucumber.

Flax seed is one of the most nutritionally complete foods available, but the components most relevant to psoriasis treatment are Omega 3 and mucilage. The Omega 3 helps correct the Omega 3 deficiency frequently found in those with skin diseases, and the mucilage prevents toxic buildup in the bowel – thereby addressing another common factor in skin disease, the excretion of excess toxins.

Sea cucumber is a marine animal related to starfish and sea urchins, but shaped liked a cucumber. Like flax seed, it also contains a broad range of nutrients, and has been used by the Chinese since ancient times in the prevention of disease and as a longevity tonic. Two of its most important nutrients – glucosamine and chrondroitin sulfate – are now used in the West for treatment of arthritis, a condition developed by 30 percent of those who suffer from psoriasis. Sea cucumber may prevent psoriatic arthritis, and will also reduce the pain and inflammation associated with psoriasis on the skin.

Consult with your doctor before taking these nutrients as they can interact or counteract with some drugs you may be taking for other conditions.

Adding flax seed and sea cucumber may help provide the nutrients needed to reduce psoriasis symptoms, possibly forever.

Living with Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that affects some 4.5 million American adults, is characterized by red, scaly skin patches. Psoriasis can appear on any part of the body, including the scalp, face, hands and feet.
Stress can be a major trigger for psoriasis, the National Psoriasis Foundation says. Taking time to relax and manage stress can help alleviate flare-ups. Any damage to the skin, including scratches or sunburn, can also trigger an outbreak.
The foundation also notes that certain medications can contribute to psoriasis symptoms, including lithium, antimalarial drugs, and certain drugs used to treat high blood pressure and arthritis. Allergies, weather and diet can also impact psoriasis.
Discuss with your doctor how to best control your symptoms.