Arthritis Drug Treats Psoriasis

A drug for rheumatoid arthritis can relieve the suffering of patients with moderate to severe psoriasis for a year, researchers said on Friday.
They found that infliximab, which is marketed under the name Remicade by Johnson & Johnson in the United States and by Schering-Plough Corp in other markets, improved symptoms of the chronic skin condition that affects 2 percent of the population in western countries.
"This is the first study to show that the very rapid and dramatic improvement that you see with psoriasis can, in the majority of patients, be maintained over at least the medium term -- over the course of a year," said Professor Christopher Griffiths, of the University of Manchester in England.
Previous trials have only looked into the impact of the drug on psoriasis over a short period of about 12 weeks.
The study published in The Lancet medical journal also showed patients saw a significant improvement in one of the most disturbing features of psoriasis: nail disease.
"Up until now it has been extremely difficult to treat," Griffiths told Reuters.
He and his colleagues compared the effects of the intravenous treatment to a placebo, or dummy drug, on 378 patients with the illness.
Each patient was given three intravenous infusions of the drug or a placebo over six weeks and then every 8 weeks for nearly a year. After less than 3 months on the treatment, 80 percent of the patients showed at least a 75 percent improvement, compared to 3 percent in the placebo group.
By the end of the trial, the drug completely cleared the skin condition in a quarter of patients but no one in the placebo group had the same result.
"Some of the patients were improved to the extent that they had no psoriasis and there was no impairment of their quality of life. So this is the best result you could possibly aim for with a treatment for psoriasis," said Griffiths.
"Compared with the other available treatments, it does work extremely effectively and extremely quickly."
The scientists said none of the patients given the drug had any serious side effects. But they stressed that the treatment is not a cure. It is likely patients would have to be on a long-term maintenance programme.
Psoriasis, an immune mediated disease, can develop at any age but it occurs most commonly before the age of 40. Psoriasis patches can also show up on the fingernails and toenails. About 15 percent of patients also suffer from arthritis linked to the condition.
European regulators recently approved infliximab for the treatment of psoriasis but the drug has not yet been approved for the skin condition in the United States.
The drug is also used as a treatment for Crohn's disease, an inflammatory bowel condition.

TREATING PSORIASIS WITH LIGHT THERAPY

Exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light--either from the sun or an artificial source--sets off a biological process that kills T cells, which slows the buildup of skin cells and reduces inflammation.
Light boxes that emit UV light to treat moderate-to-severe psoriasis and other skin diseases are medical devices that require licensing by the FDA. A person steps into the light box, which is about the size of a telephone booth, while lamps direct the light onto the body.
"Treatment with these devices is complex," says Richard Felten, an FDA chemist and senior medical device reviewer. The physician must determine an individual's sensitivity to UV and adjust the light emissions for the most effective treatment with the least risk of side effects, he says. Side effects may include burning, darkened skin, premature aging, and skin cancer. Three to five treatments per week for several weeks or months may be needed to get the psoriasis under control, followed by weekly maintenance treatments.
Light therapy, or phototherapy, is usually done in the physician's office or a medical facility that has the devices, says Felten. "The FDA has cleared some devices for home use under certain conditions and with a doctor's prescription," he says. Home devices include handheld devices for scalp psoriasis and stand-alone light boxes for other areas of the body.
Light therapy usually involves a short wavelength of ultraviolet light, called UVB. For people with resistant moderate-to-severe psoriasis, a combination of an oral or topical drug called psoralen and a longer wavelength ultraviolet A (UVA) light is used. This treatment is called "psoralen plus UVA" (PUVA).
"Psoralen makes the patient more sensitive to the UVA," says Lindstrom, "so once they've taken a dose of psoralen, a smaller dose of UVA is needed to treat them." Patients must be very careful to protect both skin and eyes for 24 hours after psoralen use to prevent damage, she says.
The FDA has also approved a special type of laser, an excimer laser, as a phototherapy device to treat mild-to-moderate psoriasis. "These lasers can deliver a much more controlled beam of light to small areas of the affected skin," says Felten.

Systemic Psoriasis Treatments

The FDA has approved oral and injected drugs that circulate throughout the body to treat psoriasis that is moderate, severe, or disabling. These systemic drugs are very powerful, and while some may be used continuously, others can only be used for a limited time because of their severe side effects. Once a drug is discontinued, the psoriasis may reactivate. The risk of birth defects prevents many systemics from being taken by pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant.
Systemic drugs that may be prescribed for psoriasis include acitretin, methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics, which are drugs made from proteins of living cells. Methotrexate, cyclosporine, and the biologic drugs are immunosuppressants, meaning they lower the body's normal immune response. "These drugs suppress the immune cells that cause psoriasis, but they don't distinguish these cells from the immune cells that protect our body from infections," says Elektra Papadopoulos, M.D., an FDA dermatologist.
Acitretin, a retinoid that is given orally for severe psoriasis, helps normalize the growth of skin cells. One of the side effects is raised fat (lipid) levels in the blood, and people taking this drug must get regular blood tests to monitor their cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Methotrexate and cyclosporine slow the growth of skin cells. Methotrexate, taken orally or by injection, is also a chemotherapy drug for cancer patients. Cyclosporine, taken orally, was first approved to prevent organ rejection in transplant recipients. People using either of these drugs must be closely monitored and should use them only for short periods of time because of serious, potentially fatal, side effects.
Biologics are the newest systemic psoriasis treatments. Since 2003, the FDA has licensed three biologics to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis: Amevive (alefacept), manufactured by Biogen Inc.; Raptiva (efalizumab), made by Genentech Inc.; and Enbrel (etanercept), marketed by Amgen Inc. and Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. Enbrel was first licensed in 2002 to treat the arthritis associated with psoriasis, and in 2004 to treat psoriasis itself.
"All are immunosuppressive and have different proposed mechanisms," says Papadopoulos. Amevive simultaneously reduces the number of immune cells, including T cells, and inhibits T-cell activation. Raptiva inhibits the activation of T cells and the migration of those cells across blood vessels and into tissues, including the skin.
Enbrel inhibits the action of an inflammatory chemical messenger in the immune system called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which is believed to play a role in both the skin and the joint symptoms of psoriasis.
All three biologics are injected. The FDA has licensed Amevive to be given in a physician's office, either injected into the muscle or into a vein (intravenously). It's a once-a-week treatment for 12 weeks; further treatments may be given after a waiting period.
The FDA has licensed Raptiva and Enbrel for home treatment. People can inject themselves with Raptiva under the skin once a week or with Enbrel once or twice a week. Both drugs are recommended for continuous use to maintain results.
Since biologic drugs are immunosuppressants, they may carry an increased risk of infection and cancer. Rare but serious effects have also included blood abnormalities and autoimmune diseases such as lupus. Other side effects are flu-like symptoms and pain and inflammation at the injection site.
Some dermatologists prescribe biologics alone for psoriasis or in combination with topical treatments. Leonardi says when he prescribes biologics, "I don't have to resort to adding other systemic therapies such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin, or phototherapy."
"Biologics are an alternative treatment to some of the traditional therapies," says Papadopoulos.
"Now we need to get the expense down," says Leonardi, who has patients who pay $30,000 per year on drugs to treat psoriasis.
Bird feels fortunate that her insurance company covers most of the expense of Enbrel, which is prescribed for both her psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Because of the arthritis pain, she has used a cane to help her walk and has had surgery on her wrist to correct some of the arthritis damage. Although Enbrel has been less effective over time for the psoriasis, she says, it's reduced her arthritic pain by about 95 percent. "I can jog down to the corner to chase after the dog," she says. "And last summer, I went hiking with my children in Colorado."

Reducing Psoriasis Treatment Risks

Biologics, other systemic drugs, and phototherapy are powerful treatments with increased risks, says Lindstrom.
Biologics may raise the risk for developing cancer and serious bacterial or fungal infections that spread throughout the body (sepsis).
Cyclosporine can damage the kidneys, methotrexate puts the liver and lungs at risk, and phototherapy can cause skin cancer. To reduce these risks, doctors often put patients on "rotational therapy." "The thought is by moving from one therapy to another therapy over time, the risk to any individual organ is reduced," says Lindstrom.
"We also try to choose a drug with an appropriate benefit-risk ratio," she says. For mild psoriasis, a topical steroid may be appropriate. For more severe disease, where it becomes impractical to apply topicals over a large surface area several times a day, a patient may need a systemic treatment.
Most of the highly effective treatments for psoriasis affect the immune system in some way. For steroid drugs, which have been around for more than 50 years, the risks are well known. But less is known about the long-term side effects of newer drugs, such as the biologics. The safety and side effects of biologics and other immune-suppressing drugs to treat psoriasis continue to be monitored by drug manufacturers and the FDA

The Future of Psoriasis Treatments

Researchers continue to look for reasons why immune cells overreact and what genes may be responsible for psoriasis, hoping to find better treatments, and eventually a cure. Psoriasis research is aided by the visibility of the symptoms on the skin.
"You can see the disease," says Leonardi. "You don't have to do invasive testing to see the effects of therapy." Psoriasis research has a "tremendous spillover into other fields besides dermatology," he adds. "There is a huge need for drugs to suppress the immune system without the side effects."
Multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes are just a few of the diseases that may also benefit from psoriasis research.

Finding the Right Treatment for Psoriasis

You may need to try different treatments before you find one that works well for you. It is important to discuss your treatment and progress with your doctor.
A recent study found that education, stress reduction, and muscle relaxation training can be beneficial to many people with psoriasis. Adding these elements to a treatment plan can reduce disability, anxiety, and stress related to dealing with psoriasis.
Treatments for psoriasis have potential side effects. People with moderate or severe psoriasis may need treatment for the rest of their lives. Many doctors will recommend that treatments be changed or rotated after a certain period of time to improve treatment effectiveness and reduce side effects.

Treating Psoriasis: Amevive

AMEVIVE is the first biologic approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. AMEVIVE is a prescription medication that is injected by your doctor (15 mg IM, into the muscle) once a week, for a total of 12 doses.

Amevivie is not without side effects.
The most serious adverse reactions were:
Lymphopenia (see WARNINGS)
Malignancies (see WARNINGS)
Serious Infections requiring hospitalization (see WARNINGS)
Hypersensitivity Reactions (see PRECAUTIONS, Allergic Reactions)
Commonly observed adverse events seen in the first course of placebo-controlled clinical trials with at least a 2% higher incidence in the AMEVIVE®-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients were: pharyngitis, dizziness, increased cough, nausea, pruritus, myalgia, chills, injection site pain, injection site inflammation, and accidental injury. The only adverse event that occurred at a 5% or higher incidence among AMEVIVE®-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients was chills (1% placebo vs. 6% AMEVIVE®), which occurred predominantly with intravenous administration.

Basic Treatment Protocol For Psoriasis

Treatment of psoriasis is determined by the location, severity and history of psoriasis in each individual. There is no one method of treatment, for each person with psoriasis may respond differently. One main objective of treatment is to slow down the more rapid than usual growth rate of the skin cells. The rapid growth rate of skin cells causes the red, scaly psoriasis patches. The underlying cause of this increased skin growth is not yet known. For patients with minimal psoriasis, therapy is limited to topical medications that are drugs applied to the skin. For patients with moderate to widespread psoriasis, topical treatments are often combined with ultraviolet light therapy. Either sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light therapy can be used. If topical and ultraviolet light therapy are not effective, or are not practical, systemic or oral medications can be used. These may be combined with ultraviolet light therapy, the so-called photo-chemotherapy or PUVA therapy. In severe cases and unresponsive cases of psoriasis, there are oral medications that slow down the growth rate of skin which are helpful. These drugs can have significant side effects and have to be used with the proper safeguard and caution. Even these strong drugs do not cure psoriasis but only help to control the disease.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Individuals with psoriasis experience symptoms such as itching, cracking, stinging, burning, or bleeding. Lack of sunlight and low indoor humidity in the winter months can cause the psoriasis symptoms to worsen. The skin is most likely to crack at the joints where the body bends, or in areas where the individual scratches. Scratching should be strictly avoided, because it can cause bleeding and infection. Psoriasis has also been known to cause pits or dents to form in fingernails and toenails. There is also the possibility that the soft tissue inside the mouth and genitalia can be affected. In some cases, psoriasis will cause joint inflammation that produces arthritis symptoms. This condition is called psoriatic arthritis.People with psoriasis may notice that there are times when their skin worsens, then improves. Conditions that may cause flare-ups include changes in climate, infections, stress, and dry skin. Also, certain medicines, most notably beta-blockers, which are used in the treatment of high blood pressure, and lithium or drugs used in the treatment of depression, may cause an outbreak or worsening of the disease.

General Definition of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic scaling skin. It may range from just a few spots anywhere on the body to large areas of involvement. It is not contagious or spread able from one part of the body to another or from one person to another. There is no blood test to diagnose psoriasis. The diagnosis is made by observation and examination of the skin. Sometimes microscopic examination of the skin (biopsy) is helpful where the changes are not typical or characteristic. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but hereditary and genetic factors are important. Psoriasis runs in families. This does not mean, however, that every child of a parent with psoriasis will develop psoriasis, but it is common that somewhere down the line psoriasis will appear in families. Psoriasis is not caused by allergies, infections, dietary deficiencies or excesses, or nervous tension.

The Appearance of Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis occurs in at least half of all people with psoriasis. It can range from very mild with fine scaling to very severe with thick, crusted plaques. Scalp psoriasis may appear as lesions that extend from the hairline onto the forehead and the nape of the neck. It is common for the psoriasis to appear behind the ears. Scalp psoriasis usually accompanies plaques in other areas of the body. Scalp psoriasis scales appear powdery with a silvery sheen. Possible causes of scalp psoriasis include: scalp treatments and severe psoriasis can both cause temporary hair loss; itching, picking and scratching lesions can worsen the psoriasis by causing a Koebner phenomenon (psoriasis appearing on the site of skin injuries).

Treating The Different Types of Psoriasis

There are five different types of psoriasis. The most common form of psoriasis is called "plaque psoriasis," which is characterized by well-defined patches of red, raised skin. About 80 percent of people with psoriasis have this type. Plaque psoriasis can appear on any skin surface, although the knees, elbows, scalp, trunk and nails are the most common locations. The other types of psoriasis are: Guttate described as small, red, individual drops on the skin. Inverse psoriasis is smooth, dry areas of skin, often in folds or creases, that are red and inflamed but do not have scaling Erythrodermic psoriasis is characterized as periodic, widespread, fiery redness of the skin. Pustular psoriasis which involves either generalized, widespread areas of reddened skin, or localized areas, particularly the hands and feet (palmo-plantar pustular psoriasis).Typically, people have only one form of psoriasis at a time. Sometimes two different types can occur together, one type may change to another type, or one type may become more severe. For example, a trigger may convert plaque psoriasis to pustular.

Large Plaque and Small Plaque Parapsoriasis

Current terminology of parapsoriasis refers to 2 disease processes that are caused by T-cell–predominant infiltrates in the skin. These disease processes are large plaque parapsoriasis and small plaque parapsoriasis.
As the nomenclature and description of the disease spectrum under the descriptive term parapsoriasis evolved, the primary focus has been on the distinction of whether the disorder progresses to mycosis fungoides (MF) or cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Small plaque parapsoriasis is a benign disorder that rarely if ever progresses. Large plaque parapsoriasis is more ominous in that approximately 10% of patients progress to CTCL. Controversy exists in the classification of large plaque parapsoriasis because some think it is equivalent to the earliest stage CTCL, the patch stage.
The duration of parapsoriasis can be variable. Small plaque disease lasts several months to years and can spontaneously resolve. Large plaque disease is chronic, and treatment is recommended because it may prevent progression to CTCL.
Pathophysiology: The initiating cause of parapsoriasis is unknown, but the diseases likely represent different stages in a continuum of lymphoproliferative disorders from chronic dermatitis to frank malignancy of CTCL.

Small plaque parapsoriasis likely is a reactive process of predominantly CD4+ T cells. Genotypic pattern observed in small plaque parapsoriasis is similar to that observed in chronic dermatitis, and the pattern of clonality of T cells is consistent with the response of a specific subset of T cells that have been stimulated by an antigen. Multiple dominant clones can be detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of T-cell receptor gene usage, which supports a reactive process. Lymphocytes do not show histologic atypia to suggest malignant transformation. Southern blot analysis of T-cell receptor genes from parapsoriasis does not identify a dominant clone of T cells.
Some physicians believe that small plaque parapsoriasis is an abortive T-cell lymphoma; however, no clear distinguishing evidence, such as genetic changes observed in other malignancies, exists to support this contention. Nevertheless, a hint to the verity of this hypothesis is the recent identification of increased telomerase activity in T cells from CTCL at low-grade stages, high-grade lymphoma, and in parapsoriasis, which is activity not exhibited in normal T cells. A better understanding is likely to develop from further molecular characterization.

Large plaque parapsoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disorder, and the pathophysiology has been speculated to be long-term antigen stimulation. This disorder is associated with a dominant T-cell clone, one that may represent up to 50% of the T-cell infiltrate. If the histologic appearance is benign, without atypical lymphocytes, classification of large plaque parapsoriasis is made. If atypical lymphocytes are present, many would classify such patients as having patch stage CTCL.

Pityriasis Lichenoides

Pityriasis lichenoides variants describe scaly dermatoses with necrotic papules that are clinically and histologically different from parapsoriasis. These diseases generally are benign and undergo spontaneous resolution.

Pityriasis lichenoides is a rare cutaneous disorder of unknown etiology. Pityriasis lichenoides encompasses a spectrum of clinical presentations ranging from acute papular lesions that rapidly evolve into pseudovesicles and central necrosis (pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta or PLEVA) to small, scaling, benign-appearing papules (pityriasis lichenoides chronica or PLC). Although historically, the term Mucha-Habermann disease has referred only to PLEVA, the term applies broadly to the entire spectrum of disease including PLC. A rare febrile ulceronecrotic variant has been reported, which is a severe form of PLEVA with high fever and marked constitutional symptoms. Lesions may self-involute and resolve completely over weeks, or new lesions occasionally may appear in crops, waxing and waning spontaneously for months to years thereafter.

Mucha-Habermann disease is not a vasculitic process despite reports of immunoglobulin and complement deposition in vessels. Fibrin is not present in the walls of vessels, and thrombi are not found in the lumen. A cell-mediated mechanism has been proposed based on a T-lymphocytic infiltrate with a cytotoxic/suppressor phenotype, diminished epidermal Langerhans cells, and a reduction of the CD4/CD8 ratio. Mucha-Habermann disease is not a lymphoproliferative disorder. CD30 (Ki-1) cells, which are associated with large cell lymphoma, have been identified in the infiltrate of both lymphomatoid papulosis and Mucha-Habermann disease, leading some authors to view this as a self-limited self-healing lymphoproliferative disease.

What is Parapsoriasis?

Parapsoriasis describes a group of cutaneous diseases that can be characterized by scaly patches or slightly elevated plaques that have a resemblance to psoriasis, hence the nomenclature. However, this description includes several inflammatory cutaneous diseases that are unrelated with respect to pathogenesis, histopathology, and response to treatment. Because of the variation in clinical presentation and a lack of a specific diagnostic finding on histopathology, a uniformly accepted definition of parapsoriasis remains lacking.
In 1902, Brocq initially described 3 major entities that fit the description:
Pityriasis lichenoides (acuta and chronica)
Small plaque parapsoriasis
Large plaque parapsoriasis (parapsoriasis en plaque)

Alternative Treatments For Psoriasis

The success rates of alternative treatment for psoriasis are difficult to measure, as conclusive test results are not available. Psoriasis has traditionally been one of the skin conditions that has stumped researchers and has proven very difficult to cure. Unfortunately, many alternative treatment types available may not actually work, and many “cures” play on the need of the patient and as merely a means to make money. There is not one treatment out there that is a miracle cure. If that was the case, the cure would widely be known and not be a secret, hidden cure.
However, there is no doubt that some alternative treatment types do work, and some treatments may benefit one person and not another. Many natural treatments include Acupuncture, Ayurveda, Dermatitis-Ltd, Manipulation, Osteopathy, Climate, Diet, Dietary Supplements, Homeopathy, Water Therapy, Chinese Medicine, Meditation and Relaxation, Herbal therapies, Topical Moisturizing Products, and Magnets. Seeking consultation from a doctor is very important before trying any self-treatments.

Healing Psoriasis Through the Power of the Mind

There is no doubt that the mind is a very powerful aid in healing, and scientific evidence supports the fact that stress can trigger, as well as make psoriasis worse in some people. Meditation and relaxation and related practices that reduce stress are often beneficial to people with psoriasis.
Hypnosis has been referred to in several scientific studies as aiding in the clearing of psoriasis. These it has been found to double the rate of clearance that UV light therapy alone (another useful psoriasis treatment.) Both on its own and as a supplement to other psoriasis treatment, it has been cited as being helpful in clearing psoriasis in several published case reports. One study examined the use of meditation and guided imagery in patients undergoing ultraviolet light (UV) treatments. Patients who relaxed during the treatments cleared faster; in some cases, twice as fast as patients who had the light therapy alone.
When used practiced in conjunction with other alternative treatments and traditional medical treatments, stress management, mental relaxation, or any means of giving patients a feeling of control over the negative mental aspects associated with psoriasis is helpful.

Can A Vitamin Cure Psoriasis?

Dietary supplements encompass vitamins, minerals and herbal products. These usually benefit the body as a whole, but there is no evidence that a particular any particular supplement is a cure for psoriasis. The supplements cited to as being beneficial to psoriasis include red clover, sarsaparilla, milk thistle and burdock. These most likely have no bad side effects if taken in usual doses. People who buy these supplements and others are responsible for safeguarding their own health. There is a risk that certain dietary supplements, even multivitamins, may interfere with prescription medications, and it is a good idea for patients to discuss with their doctor before starting any taking any new supplements.

Psoriasis Control Through Diet

It has been shown that a healthy diet and lifestyle benefits everyone, especially people with psoriasis. While there is no specific diet that people with psoriasis should follow, there is evidence that certain foods will contribute to either improving there are some connections between certain foods and the skin getting worse or clearing up. This must be is true for each individual with no general rules set guidelines of foods that are better or worse. It is helpful for patients to eat only what makes them feel the most healthy.

Treating Psoriasis Through Water Therapy

Water therapy is the combination of sea salts and water and is the basis of many powerful therapeutic treatments. There are numerous types of Water Therapy administered at spas, ayurvedic & holistic centers, and health clinics around the world. Sports therapy clinics use Hydrotherapy Baths to help patients recover from joint and muscle injuries. Dermatologists are recommending Bokek Dead Sea Salt baths for patients with psoriasis, eczema and other dry skin conditions. Estheticians emphasize the cleansing properties of a sea salt bath to clean pores and to detoxify the body. Cancer patients use water therapy to help deal with radiation treatments. There are even Water Therapies & therapeutic bath salts you can use on a daily or weekly basis in your own home.
Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, discovered the therapeutic qualities of seawater by noticing the healing affects it had on the injured hands of fishermen. The seawater not only restricted infection risks, but patients who followed treatments involving the use of seawater found that it also promoted pain relief. It is now known that sea salt therapy is an effective treatment that assists in the rejuvenation of the cells and also induces a healthy exchange of minerals and toxins between the blood and the water.
Types of Water Therapies
Balneotherapy - a range of treatments with warm mineral salt water, from bathing or underwater massage jets to plain drinking. Alkaline water helps stimulate the secretion of bile, while hypnotic water has diuretic effects and is often used for treating kidney stones.
Heliotherapy - use of the sun’s creative properties. Despite recent awareness of skin cancers, sun remains an excellent source of energy, boosts immunity and stabilizes mood when used appropriately. Skin treatments combine this with sea salt baths but should only be used together under the supervision of a doctor.
Phytotherapy - treatments with wild-growing herbs, plants, flowers or leaves. Used in salt baths, oils or infusions, their effect can be superior to pharmacological treatments for some medical conditions. Perfect for combining with sea salts.
Thalassotherapy - therapeutic baths using warm seawater. The application of seawater (which is very similar to the body’s own internal fluids) allows magnesium and potassium to be drawn into the blood stream while toxins are actively eliminated.

Harnessing The Power Of The Sun To Treat Psoriasis

There is widespread acceptance and studies to support the benefits of sunlight on psoriasis. Getting the most benefits from the sunlight involves getting regular doses of sunlight every day. When combined with saltwater bathing, particularly Dead Sea Salt bathing, sunlight is an impressive short term remedy for psoriasis. Every Year, thousands of people seek treatment at the Dead Sea in Israel, where they enjoy safe sun exposure, and bathing in the uniquely saline water. The rates of complete and dramatic clearing of psoriasis at the Dead Sea are unmatched anywhere in the world.

Herbal Treatments For Psoriasis

traditional Chinese Medicne is an ancient system of healthcare encompasses many different types of practices. A primary component of TCM involves compounds of herbal remedies, mixed uniquely for each patient. There are many formulas available for psoriasis treatment: topical, oral, and injectable. Given their history of development, these formulas deserve respect on their ability to help some patients. Some of these make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light and are combined with traditional phototherapy.
It is important to keep in mind that these Traditional Chinese herbal preparations are not clinically produced and there can be variations that misuses occur that can have negative effects on people. There are many natural drugs which are very potent in humans, and should be used with care.

Taking a holistic approach to healing arthritis and rheumatism is essential when talking natural healing. Many different factors come into play including the very important factor of genetics, as well as psychological imbalances. The natural approach to healing generally accounts for a buildup of toxins in the system and these remedies serve to cleanse the system. There are many useful products that hare accepted as useful in treating arthritis and rheumatism, including Bog bean, Guaiacum, Black cohosh, Celery seed, Meadowsweet, Yarrow, Jamaican dog wort, Valerian, Passion flower and Capsicum. These have been used for many years by herbalists for arthritis treatment.
These herbs have already been mixed into the most beneficial compounds to yield the best result. Because many natural compounds are inherently very potent and may be toxic, getting the right balance is an experimental process. It is a good idea if you intend to use these products to purchase a ready-made compound from either a pharmacy or a herbalist

Psoriasis Treatment Through Manipulation

This term is used to describe any method of treating pain which includes realigning the joints, (such as Chiropractics). Manipulation of the joints must be done by a highly skilled person in order to avoid any risk that the practice might actually harm the inflamed joints rather than help them.
With little proof of helping with psoriatic arthritis patients, however, massage is quite helpful to relieve pain in the muscles and restore joint health after the inflammation has subsided

Treating Psoriasis With The Ancient Methods of Ayurveda

An ancient healing method based on prevention rather than cures, Ayurveda has roots in India thousands of years old. It is a more holistic approach, and does not focus on one affected area or one specific disease or condition. It focuses on balance though balancing lifestyle and meditation as well as a healthful diet and dietary supplements. This holistic approach to controlling Psoriasis might involve reducing stress, cleansing the body, exercise, and oils for the skin.

Using Acupuncture To treat Psoriasis

With roots in ancient China, this technique of relieving pain and treating disease involves inserting and manipulating fine needles in the body at varying depths at “meridians” or acupressure points. Acupuncture, though, is not a common way to treat psoriasis in China but there is evidence that it is an effective psoriasis treatment. This evidence is largely unsupported by clinical studies, and its success of varies from person to person. Generally, it takes many treatments in order to help. The benefits of this acupuncture include no side effects, so trying the treatment involves no risk of negative side effects. Acupuncture is becoming more widespread and accepted as a means of treating and controlling the pain associated with psoriatic arthritis and rheumatism.

Keeping the Skin Moist

Indeed a very important part of healing psoriasis, many moisturizing agents can be considered natural treatments natural compounds products. One treatment which has been studied and found effective is aloe vera. Other substances which may be helpful due to their moisturizing properties include neem oil, emu oil, jojoba, among others, but these have not been proven scientifically to help psoriasis.
Products including witch hazel, tea tree oil, mahonia ther aquifolium, capsaicin and evening primrose oil seem to have medicinal effects on the skin, and Capsicum (a natural component of hot peppers) is widely known to be an effective pain reliever when applied to the skin and to help relieve scaling, redness and itching. Bathing and moisturizing with oat- derivative products is soothing to may skin conditions.

The Profile of Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis may occur in isolation or with any other form of psoriasis. The back of the head is a common site but multiple discrete areas of the scalp or the whole scalp may be affected. Scalp psoriasis is characterised by thick silvery white scale on patches of very red skin. It may extend slightly beyond the hairline. Scalp psoriasis, even though often adequately camouflaged by the hair, is often a source of social embarrassment due to flaking of the scale and severe 'dandruff'. Scalp psoriasis may not cause any symptoms at all or may be extremely itchy. It tends to be a chronic problem, lasting many years.
In very severe cases there may be some temporary mild localised hair loss but scalp psoriasis does not cause permanent balding.
Scalp psoriasis requires slightly different regimes from psoriasis affecting the skin elsewhere. This is due to hair, which makes application of many topical products difficult and protects the scalp from the effects of ultraviolet light. Unfortunately, many scalp treatments for scalp psoriasis are messy and smelly. Most treatments will need to be used regularly for several weeks before a benefit is seen.
Special medicated shampoos can be purchased from the chemist.
Coal tar shampoos are suitable for most patients with scalp psoriasis
Ketoconazole shampoo is effective for dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis and sebopsoriasis
The shampoos work best if rubbed into the scalp well, and left in for 5 or 10 minutes and then reapplied. They are safe for daily use but may irritate if applied more than twice weekly. If you dislike the smell of coal tar, try shampooing again with a favourite brand, and use a conditioner.
More severe cases require leave-on scalp applications.
Alcohol-based topical steroid and calcipotriol lotions can reduce itch but don't lift scale very well. Use topical steroids intermittently; overuse results in more extensive and severe psoriasis.
Salicylic acid and coal tar creams work much better, but are messy. Coconut compound ointment is a combination of coal tar, salicylic acid and sulphur and seems particularly effective. Leave on for at least an hour and shampoo off later. Most people rub the cream into the plaques at night and wash it off in the morning.
Use the scalp preparation daily at first then as the condition improves, reduce the frequency. Unfortunately in many cases the scale soon builds up again, so the creams may have to be applied regularly to keep the scalp clear.
Cutting hair short helps control scalp psoriasis, probably by making the treatments easier to apply, but is not appealing to everyone.

Treating Pustular Psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis usually occurs in adults. It is characterized by blister-like lesions filled with non-infectious pus and surrounded by reddened skin. Pustular psoriasis, which can be limited to one part of the body (localized) or can be widespread, may be the first symptom of psoriasis or develop in a patient with chronic plaque psoriasis.

Generalized pustular psoriasis is also known as Von Zumbusch pustular psoriasis. Widespread, acutely painful patches of inflamed skin develop suddenly. Pustules appear within a few hours, then dry and peel within two days.

Generalized pustular psoriasis can make life-threatening demands on the heart and kidneys.
Palomar-plantar pustulosis (PPP) generally appears between the ages of 20 and 60. PPP causes large pustules to form at the base of the thumb or on the sides of the heel. In time, the pustules turn brown and peel. The disease usually becomes much less active for a while after peeling.

Acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau is a form of PPP characterized by painful, often disabling, lesions on the fingertips or the tips of the toes. The nails may become deformed, and the disease can damage bone in the affected area.

6-ThioguanineApproved for treating leukemia, it may be effective in treating psoriasis, especially pustular psoriasis. Possible side effects include anemia, decrease in white blood cells and platelets and bone marrow toxicity.

IsotretinoinFDA approved for the treatment of severe cystic acne, oral isotretinoin may also be effective in treating pustular psoriasis. Isotretinoin is a potent drug that can cause severe birth defects. For this reason, it should not be used by a woman who is pregnant or breast feeding. Women planning a pregnancy should discontinue taking isotretinoin and use birth control for at least one month before trying to become pregnant.

Non-traditional psoriasis treatments include:
*Soaking in warm water and German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) or bathing in warm salt water.
*Drinking as many as three cups a day of hot tea made with one or a combination of the following herbs: burdock (Arctium lappa) root, dandelion (Taraxacum mongolicum) root, Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium), sarsaparilla (Smilax officinalis), and balsam pear (Momardica charantia).
*Taking two 500-mg capsules of evening primrose oil (Oenothera biennis) a day. Pregnant women should not use evening primrose oil, and patients with liver disease or high cholesterol should use it only under a doctor's supervision.
*Eating a diet that includes plenty of fish, turkey, celery (for cleansing the kidneys), parsley, lettuce, lemons (for cleansing the liver), limes, fiber, and fruit and vegetable juices.
*Eating a diet that eliminates animal products high in saturated fats, since they promote inflammation.
*Drinking plenty of water (at least eight glasses) each day.
*Taking nutritional supplements including folic acid, lecithin, vitamin A (specific for the skin), vitamin E, selenium, and zinc.
*Regularly imagining clear, healthy skin.

Dermatitis or Psoriasis - Which One Do I Have?

Is it dermatitis or psoriasis? How to Determine which skin condition you have:
Dermatitis is simply an inflammation of the skin, it is anything that causes redness, itchy and/or irritation. It can be poison ivy, rosacea, acne, eczema, or psoriasis. Psoriasis defines the skin condition in more depth. Psoriasis is a noncontagious inflammatory skin disease characterized by recurring reddish patches. Psoriasis as an hereditary components illness; in fact it’s possible to find different people with this pathology in the same family. It's frequently found in a family composed by people with pathologies as: diabetes of the adult, rheumatoid arthritis, the systemic lupus erythematic, vitiligo and a member with psoriasis too.

Inverse Psoriasis: What It Is And How To Treat It

Inverse or Flexural psoriasis is localized in the flexural surfaces of the skin or skin folds. This type of psoriasis is often white in color, appears softened as if soaked by water, and may resemble a fungal infection. There is very little scaling, although the patches are inflamed and can be very sore. Appearing as it does in the folds of the skin, it is moister than other forms of psoriasis, and can be more uncomfortable physically. Flexural psoriasis rarely occurs by itself. It is more likely to accompany common plaque psoriasis. Psoriasis sufferers in their middle years or old age are more susceptible to this type of psoriasis as are people who are overweight and have more folds of skin.

The goal of psoriasis treatment is to reduce inflammation and to control flaking of the skin. Psoriasis treatment is based on the affected person’s health, age, lifestyle, and the severity of the psoriasis. A number of different psoriasis treatments are normally employed to determine which is the most effective.

Treatment can be difficult due to the sensitivity of skin in these fold areas. Steroid creams and ointments are considered very effective, but they should not be occluded (covered) with plastic dressings. Overuse or misuse of steroids, particularly in skin folds, can result in side effects, especially thinning of the skin and stretch marks. Because these areas are prone to yeast and fungal infections, doctors may test for infection and then may use diluted topical steroids in combination with other medications, for example, 1% or 2% hydrocortisone with anti-yeast or antifungal agents.

Other topical agents, such as Dovonex, coal tar or anthralin, can be somewhat effective in treating psoriasis in skin folds, but they may also be irritating. They should be used with caution and under the direction of a doctor. People with severe inverse psoriasis may occasionally require systemic drugs, such as methotrexate, to control the condition.

In December 2000, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a drug called Protopic (also known by its generic name tacrolimus) for eczema. Many dermatologists have found it works well for psoriasis lesions in skin folds. Elidel (also known by its generic name pimecrolimus) can also be used for inverse psoriasis. Elidel is generally not as effective as Protopic but is less greasy.

Sometimes a product called Castellani's Paint (prescribed by a doctor and compounded by a pharmacist, or bought over the counter as brand name Castederm) is used to treat inverse psoriasis. It is a liquid that can be painted on the affected skin and can help to dry moist lesions of psoriasis in folds, as can the use of various powders. Some people will use creams at night and powders in the morning. Zeasorb and Zeasorb AF may be effective powders to use for inverse psoriasis.

Cause, Symptoms and Treatment of Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis refers to a distinctive, acute clinical presentation of an eruption characterized by small, droplike, 1-10 mm in diameter, salmon-pink papules, usually with a fine scale. The word guttate is derived from the Latin word gutta, meaning drop. This variant primarily occurs on the trunk and the proximal extremities, but it may have a generalized distribution.

Guttate psoriasis is a relatively uncommon form of psoriasis. It is usually seen in patients younger than 30. Flares generally follow an infection, most notably strep throat.
Psoriasis seems to be an inherited disorder, and it appears to be related to the immune or inflammatory response. It often is aggravated by injury or irritation (cuts, burns, rash, insect bites ), and may be severe in immunosuppressed people (such as those who have chemotherapy for cancer, or with AIDS ) or in people who have autoimmune disorders (such as rheumatoid arthritis ). Medications, viral or bacterial infections, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of sunlight, overexposure to sunlight (sunburn), stress, cold climate, and frequent friction on the skin are also associated with flare-ups of psoriasis.

Normally, skin takes about a month for its new cells to move from the lower layers to the surface. In psoriasis, this process takes only a few days, resulting in the build-up of dead skin cells and formation of thick scales.

Symptoms of guttate psoriasis include skin lesions (scaly macule), redness, silvery scales, discrete, demarcated, teardrop-shaped patches of skin usually located all over the body
These areas may show a patchy loss of skin color and be very itchy.

Diagnosis is usually based on the appearance of the skin. There is often a history of recent sore throat. Your physician may choose to perform a skin biopsy or throat culture to help confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment is focused on control of the symptoms and prevention of secondary infections. It varies with the extent and severity of the disorder. If an infection can be identified, it should be treated with appropriate antibiotics. Severe or resistant cases, or cases involving large areas of the body, may require intensive treatment or hospitalization. Mild cases are usually treated at home.
Topical medications used to treat guttate psoriasis include:
Prescription or nonprescription shampoos, shampoos or lotions that contain coal tar, cortisone or other corticosteroids, lubricants, vitamin D containing medications (Dovonex) and/or retinoids (Tazorac).

Oral or injected immunosuppressive medications (such as corticosteroids or methotrexate) may be used, but only in very severe cases. Other medications may include retinoids or cyclosporine.
Other treatments may include exposure to sunlight or phototherapy. The skin is sensitized by applying coal tar ointment or by taking oral psoralens (a medication that makes the skin sensitive to light). The person is then exposed to ultraviolet light.

To minimize flare-ups, maintain good general health. Avoid respiratory and other infections.
Complications include pain, severe itching, complications secondary to treatments, and secondary skin infections.

Raptiva Targets T-Cells

Raptiva is a man-made antibody. It goes against T cells, the quarterbacks of the immune system. It doesn't kill the T cells -- instead, it blocks T cells from moving from the blood into the skin.
Mark Lebwohl, MD, of Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York, and colleagues treated nearly 600 moderate-to-severe psoriasis patients with two different doses of Raptiva. After 12 weeks of treatment:
28% of high-dose patients (2 mg/kg body weight injections once a week) had at least 75% improvement.
22% of low-dose patients (2 mg/kg body weight injections every other week) had at least 75% improvement.
"Continued [Raptiva] therapy provided continued benefit," Lebwohl and colleagues report. "In addition, extending the [Raptiva] treatment from 12 to 24 weeks resulted in improved responses in many subjects who did not initially have improvement of 75% or more."

Enbrel: From Arthritis to Psoriasis

Enbrel is a man-made protein that blocks a chemical messenger called TNF (tumor necrosis factor). Blocking TNF quiets the abnormal immune responses seen in arthritis -- and in psoriasis.
Craig L. Leonardi, MD, of St. Louis University, and colleagues tested three different doses of Enbrel in 652 adult patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis. After 24 weeks of treatment:
59% of high-dose patients (50 mg injections twice a week) had at least 75% improvement -- 55% reported "clear" or "almost clear" status.
44% of medium-dose patients (25 mg injections twice a week) had at least 75% improvement -- 39% reported "clear" or "almost clear" status.
25% of low-dose patients (25 mg injections once a week) had at least 75% improvement -- 26% reported "clear" or "almost clear" status.
"Rapid clearing of skin lesions is an important aspect of effective psoriasis management and may correlate with the patient's satisfaction with treatment," Leonardi and colleagues write. "After two weeks of treatment, [Enbrel] produced statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in patients' global assessments of disease and in the quality of life."

New Options In Psoriasis Treatment

Not so long ago, psoriasis sufferers had few options. Now three already-available drugs offer relief from the agonizing skin disease.
The new drugs are Enbrel, Raptiva, and Amevive. All are "biological" drugs -- they use recent scientific breakthroughs to target specific body functions.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease; the new drugs block harmful immune responses. Amevive and Raptiva were approved earlier this year as psoriasis treatments. Enbrel was approved in 1998 to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Enbrel's manufacturer, Wyeth, a WebMD sponsor, has filed for formal approval as a psoriasis treatment.
Separate clinical studies of psoriasis patients treated with Enbrel and Raptiva appear in the Nov. 20 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine. So does an editorial by Thomas S. Kupper, MD, of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.
"At this point, there are insufficient data to support claims that one of these agents is superior to another," Kupper writes. "There may be groups of people who have a better response to one or the other of these agents."
All of these drugs likely must be taken for long periods of time -- perhaps for life. Because they interfere with the immune system, there is a danger that they will raise patients' risk of infections and maybe even cancer. It's not clear how the drugs will work over years and years of treatment. But in the short term, all have remarkable safety records. That's particularly true for Enbrel, which has been used in more than 150,000 patients -- including long-term safety studies in 2,000 patients.

Sunshine and Psoriasis

Brief, regular periods of exposure to natural sunlight can improve or clear psoriasis in some people. This approach to treating psoriasis is called climatotherapy. Sunburn should be avoided because it can make psoriasis worse. Exposure to sunlight is not recommended for people who are sun-sensitive. Sun exposure can cause aging of the skin. An annual medical checkup is advised because sun exposure can increase the chance of skin cancer.

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. It is characterized by raised, inflamed (red) lesions covered with a silvery white scale. The scale is actually a buildup of dead skin cells. The technical name for plaque psoriasis is psoriasis vulgaris (vulgaris means common). Plaque psoriasis may appear on any skin surface, though the knees, elbows, scalp, and trunk are the most common locations. Sometimes the patches of infected skin are large, extending over much of the body. The patches, known as plaques or lesions, can wax and wane but tend to be chronic. These can be very itchy and if scratched or scraped they may bleed easily. The plaques usually have a well-defined edge and, while they can appear anywhere on the body, the most commonly affected areas are the scalp, knees and elbows. However, if the scalp is involved, you may develop psoriasis on the hairline and forehead. The actual appearance of the plaques can depend on where they are found on the body. Plaques found on the palms and soles can be scaly, however they may not be very red in color. This is due to the thickness of the skin at these sites. If the plaques are in moist areas, such as in the creases of the armpits or between the buttocks, there is usually little or no scaling. The patches are red and have a well-defined border. Chronic (or common) plaque psoriasis affects over 90% of sufferers. It appears usually on the scalp, lower back, elbows, arms, legs, knees and shoulders. It is very much an adult condition.

Get the Facts on Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition affecting approximately 4.5 million people in the United States.
New skin cells grow too rapidly, resulting in inflamed, swollen, scaly patches of skin in areas where the old skin has not shed quickly enough.
Psoriasis can be limited to a few spots or can involve more extensive areas of the body, appearing most commonly on the scalp, knees, elbows and trunk.
Psoriasis is not a contagious disease.
The cause of psoriasis is unknown, and there currently is no cure.
Psoriasis can strike people at any age, but the average age of onset is approximately 28 years. Likewise, it affects both men and women, with a slightly higher prevalence in women than in men.
Approximately 30 percent of people with psoriasis are estimated to have moderate-to-severe forms of the disease.Psoriasis can be a physically and emotionally painful condition.
It often results in physical limitations, disfiguration and a significant burden in managing the daily care of the disease.
Psoriasis sufferers may feel embarrassed, angry, frustrated, fearful, depressed and, in some cases, even suicidal.

Psoriasis Defined

Psoriasis is a chronic scaling skin. It may range from just a few spots anywhere on the body to large areas of involvement. It is not contagious or spread able from one part of the body to another or from one person to another. There is no blood test to diagnose psoriasis. The diagnosis is made by observation and examination of the skin. Sometimes microscopic examination of the skin (biopsy) is helpful where the changes are not typical or characteristic. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but hereditary and genetic factors are important. Psoriasis runs in families. This does not mean, however, that every child of a parent with psoriasis will develop psoriasis, but it is common that somewhere down the line psoriasis will appear in families. Psoriasis is not caused by allergies, infections, dietary deficiencies or excesses, or nervous tension.

Variety of Psoriasis Treatments

Today, there are many different treatments to help control psoriasis. Some can be found over the counter at a drugstore, while others require a prescription from your doctor.
No single treatment works for everyone.
The goal is to find a treatment that works the best for you with the fewest side effects. Your doctor will look at what kind of psoriasis you have and recommend the treatment regimen that is best for you.
More about choosing a treatment with your doctor
Below are links to more information about the different kinds of treatments that can help with psoriasis.
Topical treatmentsTopical treatments–agents applied to the skin–are usually the first line of defense in treating psoriasis. More about topicals
PhototherapyPhototherapy (UVB, PUVA and lasers) involves exposing the skin to wavelengths of ultraviolet light under medical supervision. More about phototherapy
Systemic medicationsSystemics are prescription medications that affect the entire body, and are usually reserved for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. Biologics are a type of systemic medication. Systemics Biologics
Alternative approaches, diet & climateMany people choose to treat their psoriasis in nontraditional ways, including mind and body therapies, Alternative approaches ,
dietary supplements Your diet and psoriasis ,
and sunlight Sun and water therapy

Understanding Flexural Psoriasis

Flexural psoriasis, sometimes called Inverse Psoriasis, is localized in the flexural surfaces of the skin, e.g., armpit, groin, under the breast, and other skin folds. Typically, it appears as smooth inflamed lesions without scaling and is particularly subject to irritation due to rubbing and sweating.This type of psoriasis is often white in color, appears softened as if soaked by water, and may resemble a fungal infection. There is very little scaling, although the patches are inflamed and can be very sore. Appearing as it does in the folds of the skin, it is moister than other forms of psoriasis, and can be more uncomfortable physically.Flexural psoriasis rarely occurs by itself. It is more likely to accompany common plaque psoriasis.Psoriasis sufferers in their middle years or old age are more susceptible to this type of psoriasis as are people who are overweight and have more folds of skin.

The History of Psoriasis

Psoriasis has been around since the days of Greek mythology, more than 2,500 years ago. It was considered a curse from the gods.The Bible refers to psoriasis but mistakenly calls it leprosy. For hundreds of years, people with the disease were ostracized and forced to wander as homeless beggars. Some had to wear warning bells so others could avoid their paths. Some suffered the same fate as lepers, who were burned at the stake in the 14th century."Amazingly, psoriasis was a disease that had been misunderstood for more than 2,000 years before it was clearly defined (in the early 1800s) and named what we know it as today."

Psoriasis Information

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition affecting approximately 4.5 million people in the United States.
New skin cells grow too rapidly, resulting in inflamed, swollen, scaly patches of skin in areas where the old skin has not shed quickly enough.
Psoriasis can be limited to a few spots or can involve more extensive areas of the body, appearing most commonly on the scalp, knees, elbows and trunk.
Psoriasis is not a contagious disease.
The cause of psoriasis is unknown, and there currently is no cure.Psoriasis can strike people at any age, but the average age of onset is approximately 28 years.
Likewise, it affects both men and women, with a slightly higher prevalence in women than in men.
Approximately 30 percent of people with psoriasis are estimated to have moderate-to-severe forms of the disease.
Psoriasis can be a physically and emotionally painful condition.
It often results in physical limitations, disfiguration and a significant burden in managing the daily care of the disease.
Psoriasis sufferers may feel embarrassed, angry, frustrated, fearful, depressed and, in some cases, even suicidal.

Get the Facts on Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis is characterized by small red dots (or drops) of psoriasis. Guttate is derived from the Latin word gutta meaning "drop." It often appears on the trunk, arms and legs. The lesions may have some scale.
Guttate psoriasis frequently appears suddenly following a streptococcal infection or viral upper respiratory infections.
There are also other events that can precipitate an attack of guttate psoriasis: tonsillitis, a cold, chicken pox, immunizations, physical trauma, psychological stress, illness, and the administration of anti-malarial drugs.
Guttate psoriasis is many small patches of psoriasis, all over the body, and often happens after a throat infection.
Guttate Psoriasis most often affects children and young adults. It appears as small, red bumps-the size of drops of water-on the skin. It usually appears suddenly, often several weeks after an infection such as strep throat.

Psoriasis Explained

Psoriasis is a chronic scaling skin. It may range from just a few spots anywhere on the body to large areas of involvement. It is not contagious or spread able from one part of the body to another or from one person to another. There is no blood test to diagnose psoriasis. The diagnosis is made by observation and examination of the skin. Sometimes microscopic examination of the skin (biopsy) is helpful where the changes are not typical or characteristic. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but hereditary and genetic factors are important. Psoriasis runs in families. This does not mean, however, that every child of a parent with psoriasis will develop psoriasis, but it is common that somewhere down the line psoriasis will appear in families. Psoriasis is not caused by allergies, infections, dietary deficiencies or excesses, or nervous tension

Psoriasis Treatment Basics

1. Keep the body well hydrated with water. The smallest person should consume at least 8 eight-ounce glasses of water a day. The average person should consume 10 to 12 glasses daily. A person with an above-average exercise program, or who lives in a cold climate, should have 12 to 16 glasses. Christie Brinkley, a well-known international model (age 47 with 3 children) weighs only 135 pounds and averages 12 to 16 glasses per day (3 to 4 liters). Alkaline water is an excellent psoriasis treatment.
2. Be sure to moisturize your body with creams or lotions such as Jojoba oil (found in most health stores), Keri lotion, 10% urea cream, or Eucerin. Vaseline and ointments can block sweat glands and cause rashes to worsen, therefore they should be avoided. Jojoba Oil is the preferred psoriasis treatment to moisturize the skin.
3. Antihistamines, such as Benadryl by Parke-Davis (25 mg.), can be taken after 7:00 PM to control itching, which tends to be worse at night.
4. Keep nails clean and short to prevent scratching, which can cause infection or irritation.
5. Avoid skin irritants such as animal dander (dogs and cats), feathers, harsh fabrics (denim and corduroy), tight clothing, and sometimes even wool and silk. Cotton clothing is recommended as much as possible.
6. Launder clothing with mild soap or detergent (Dreft, Ivory Snow, certain sans-additive detergents such as Tide Free). Use no additives such as enzymes or fabric softeners. Wash new clothing prior to wearing.
7. Avoid temperature and humidity extremes, don't overdress or overheat. When humidity is low as during the winter in heated homes, a humidifier may be helpful.
8. Avoid swimming in chlorinated pools. Lake and ocean swimming is fine. Apply moisturizers afterwards.
9. Reduce or eliminate coffee and other stimulants, including alcohol. Stimulants are acidic, which works against psoriasis treatment.
10. Use soap substitutes such as Cetaphil 'gentle cleansing bar for dry sensitive skin' (not the aggressive antibacterial for acne, the oily skin, or the Cetaphil pump liquid with two alcohols), Emulave, or Neutrogena. Cetaphil cleansing bars can be purchased at your local drug store or pharmacy. Bubble bath should never be used as it may cause dryness and irritation of the psoriasis.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is characterized by recurrent red scaly patches or lesions. These patches, which are also known as plaques, have a well-defined edge around them. These red plaques are covered with thick white scales. Psoriasis that develops after a strep infection looks like small pinkish skin lesions.

Psoriatic Arthritis

When psoriasis and arthritis occur together, it is known as psoriatic arthritis. (Arthritis is not a single disorder but rather the name for joint disease from a number of causes. Arthritic disease causes painful inflammation of one or several joints, with the inflammation destroying the cartilage in the joints.) The most easily recognizable form of psoriatic arthritis affects the joints of the fingers and toes. Psoriatic arthritis is usually less painful than rheumatoid arthritis. It also usually causes less disability.Psoriatic arthritis generally affects the fingers and toes, but it can involve the wrists, lower back, knees and ankles. Psoriatic arthritis can be a serious disease, with a large percentage of patients reporting that their symptoms limit their work or home activities.Psoriatic arthritis usually appears between the ages of 30 and 50. Its symptoms usually include at least one of the following:
Pain in one or more joints
Movement that is restricted by pain in the joint or surrounding areas
Morning stiffness
Eye pain or redness

Psoriasis Can Affect The Nails Too

About 50 percent of people with active psoriasis have psoriatic changes in fingernails and/or toenails. In some instances psoriasis may occur only in the nails and nowhere else on the body. Psoriatic changes in nails range from mild to severe, generally reflecting the extent of psoriatic involvement of the nail plate, nail matrix (tissue from which the nail grows), nail bed (tissue under the nail), and skin at the base of the nail. Damage to the nail bed by the pustular psoriasis can result in loss of the nail.
Nail changes in psoriasis fall into general categories that may occur singly or all together:
The nail plate is deeply pitted, probably due to defects in nail growth caused by psoriasis.
The nail has a yellow to yellow-pink discoloration, probably due to psoriatic involvement of the nail bed.
White areas appear under the nail plate. These are air bubbles marking spots where the nail plate is becoming detached from the nail bed (onycholysis).
There may be reddened skin around the nail.
The nail plate crumbles in yellowish patches (onychodystrophy), probably due to psoriatic involvement in the nail matrix.
The nail is entirely lost due to psoriatic involvement of the nail matrix and nail bed.

Factors in the Treatment of Psoriasis

In the treatment of psoriasis, it is important to treat psoriasis in as many ways as possible. Those who modify their lifestyles, eating habits and reduce their level of stress often experience a much greater degree of psoriasis cure. The most visible and distressing symptoms receive treatment, but more can be accomplished by treatment of the cause!

Pustular Psoriasis

This type of psoriasis usually appears as a large red area covered with yellow-green pustules. They tend to be one to two millimeters in diameter and are quite tender. The yellow color is caused by masses of white blood cells (polymorph leucocytes), which flood into any part of the skin that is damaged or infected, in order to fight infection and aid recovery.After seven to 10 days, the pustules become dispersed and a brown scale appears. This scale will start to shed as new pustules develop in other areas, often in a continuous cycle. The most common type of pustular psoriasis affects the palms and soles. It isn't normally itchy however it can be sore or uncomfortable to use either your hands or feet, for example if you are writing or walking.

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. It is characterized by raised, inflamed (red) lesions covered with a silvery white scale. The scale is actually a buildup of dead skin cells. The technical name for plaque psoriasis is psoriasis vulgaris (vulgaris means common). Plaque psoriasis may appear on any skin surface, though the knees, elbows, scalp, and trunk are the most common locations. Sometimes the patches of infected skin are large, extending over much of the body. The patches, known as plaques or lesions, can wax and wane but tend to be chronic. These can be very itchy and if scratched or scraped they may bleed easily. The plaques usually have a well-defined edge and, while they can appear anywhere on the body, the most commonly affected areas are the scalp, knees and elbows. However, if the scalp is involved, you may develop psoriasis on the hairline and forehead. The actual appearance of the plaques can depend on where they are found on the body. Plaques found on the palms and soles can be scaly, however they may not be very red in color. This is due to the thickness of the skin at these sites. If the plaques are in moist areas, such as in the creases of the armpits or between the buttocks, there is usually little or no scaling. The patches are red and have a well-defined border. Chronic (or common) plaque psoriasis affects over 90% of sufferers. It appears usually on the scalp, lower back, elbows, arms, legs, knees and shoulders. It is very much an adult condition.

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis occurs in at least half of all people with psoriasis. It can range from very mild with fine scaling to very severe with thick, crusted plaques. Scalp psoriasis may appear as lesions that extend from the hairline onto the forehead and the nape of the neck. It is common for the psoriasis to appear behind the ears. Scalp psoriasis usually accompanies plaques in other areas of the body. Scalp psoriasis scales appear powdery with a silvery sheen. Possible causes of scalp psoriasis include: scalp treatments and severe psoriasis can both cause temporary hair loss; itching, picking and scratching lesions can worsen the psoriasis by causing a Koebner phenomenon (psoriasis appearing on the site of skin injuries).

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Individuals with psoriasis experience symptoms such as itching, cracking, stinging, burning, or bleeding. Lack of sunlight and low indoor humidity in the winter months can cause the psoriasis symptoms to worsen. The skin is most likely to crack at the joints where the body bends, or in areas where the individual scratches. Scratching should be strictly avoided, because it can cause bleeding and infection. Psoriasis has also been known to cause pits or dents to form in fingernails and toenails. There is also the possibility that the soft tissue inside the mouth and genitalia can be affected. In some cases, psoriasis will cause joint inflammation that produces arthritis symptoms. This condition is called psoriatic arthritis.People with psoriasis may notice that there are times when their skin worsens, then improves. Conditions that may cause flare-ups include changes in climate, infections, stress, and dry skin. Also, certain medicines, most notably beta-blockers, which are used in the treatment of high blood pressure, and lithium or drugs used in the treatment of depression, may cause an outbreak or worsening of the disease.

Psoriatic Changes in the Nails

About 50 percent of people with active psoriasis have psoriatic changes in fingernails and/or toenails. In some instances psoriasis may occur only in the nails and nowhere else on the body. Psoriatic changes in nails range from mild to severe, generally reflecting the extent of psoriatic involvement of the nail plate, nail matrix (tissue from which the nail grows), nail bed (tissue under the nail), and skin at the base of the nail. Damage to the nail bed by the pustular psoriasis can result in loss of the nail. Nail changes in psoriasis fall into general categories that may occur singly or all together:The nail plate is deeply pitted, probably due to defects in nail growth caused by psoriasis. The nail has a yellow to yellow-pink discoloration, probably due to psoriatic involvement of the nail bed. White areas appear under the nail plate. These are air bubbles marking spots where the nail plate is becoming detached from the nail bed (onycholysis). There may be reddened skin around the nail.The nail plate crumbles in yellowish patches (onychodystrophy), probably due to psoriatic involvement in the nail matrix.The nail is entirely lost due to psoriatic involvement of the nail matrix and nail bed.

Psoriasis is a Chronic Skin Condition

Psoriasis is a common immune-mediated chronic skin disease that comes in different forms and varying levels of severity. Most researchers now conclude that it is related to the immune system (psoriasis is often called an "immune-mediated" disorder).It is not contagious. In general, it is a condition that is frequently found on the knees, elbows, scalp, hands, feet or lower back. Many treatments are available to help manage its symptoms. More than 4.5 million adults in the United States have it. Between 10 percent and 30 percent of people with psoriasis also develop a related form of arthritis, called psoriatic arthritis

Treating Psoriasis

Treatment of psoriasis is determined by the location, severity and history of psoriasis in each individual. There is no one method of treatment, for each person with psoriasis may respond differently. One main objective of treatment is to slow down the more rapid than usual growth rate of the skin cells. The rapid growth rate of skin cells causes the red, scaly psoriasis patches. The underlying cause of this increased skin growth is not yet known. For patients with minimal psoriasis, therapy is limited to topical medications that are drugs applied to the skin. For patients with moderate to widespread psoriasis, topical treatments are often combined with ultraviolet light therapy. Either sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light therapy can be used. If topical and ultraviolet light therapy are not effective, or are not practical, systemic or oral medications can be used. These may be combined with ultraviolet light therapy, the so-called photo-chemotherapy or PUVA therapy. In severe cases and unresponsive cases of psoriasis, there are oral medications that slow down the growth rate of skin which are helpful. These drugs can have significant side effects and have to be used with the proper safeguard and caution. Even these strong drugs do not cure psoriasis but only help to control the disease.

Helping Children With Psoriasis

Although medical information is the first thing to communicate about the disease, it is crucial that your child learn to recognize his or her feelings about psoriasis. Typically, when young people develop psoriasis, it not only affects them physically but also emotionally. It may influence how they view and interact with the world, the activities they take part in, the people they seek out as friends and the interests they develop.
Some children show little emotional reaction; others are embarrassed, angry or sad. Children may be apprehensive about their psoriasis getting worse or recurring. Anxiety over rejection by peers is very common, especially as the child moves toward teenage years.
Emotional SwingsPsoriasis presents a range of emotional responses, and coming to terms with having the disease may take some time. No one can predict how a child with the disease will act or feel, because psoriasis tends to fluctuate from worse to better, and the child's feelings will shift as well. The swing in feelings alone can cause confusion. While some children show little in the way of an emotional reaction to psoriasis, others feel embarrassed, angry or sad.
Your child's ability to communicate effectively about the disease and his or her feelings is as important as developing ways to help your child manage the symptoms of psoriasis. Remember that having psoriasis at a young age impacts the patient's body image more severely than in adults.

Seven Ways for Children to Cope with Psoriasis

Seven Ways to Beat the Psoriasis Blues
Prepare your child for the chronic nature of the disease and that it goes through cycles.
Help your child to understand that while this is a genetic disorder, we don't know why some people have it and some don't.
Assure your child that they did not bring on psoriasis. It's not their fault. Make sure the child knows the psoriasis is not her fault because she doesn't eat right, keep clean or has an abnormal personality.
Teach your child patience, with the understanding that some treatments work better than others for them. Tell your child how important it is that they use the medicines properly to control the psoriasis.
Encourage questions and inquisitiveness. Some children are better off writing down their questions. Teens might be interested in camouflaging techniques and other things that help them to feel more in control of their condition. Ensure that they get the answers to their questions from their dermatologist. Discuss their condition, both physically and emotionally, with the dermatologist.
Encourage your child to reach out for support whenever needed and make sure the support is there. Teenagers may find the psoriasis especially distressing, as appearance is extremely important to teens. You can remind teens that educating the people they encounter is important.
Make sure the child understands that while psoriasis might be part of who they are, it's not all of who they are.

The Numbers Tell The Story

The numbers tell the story about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
National Health Concern
About 2.1 percent of the U.S. population has psoriasis
More than 4.5 million American men and women have psoriasis, or about one in 50 Americans
Age
Often appears between the ages of 15 and 35, but can develop at any age
Average age of onset is 28
10 percent to 15 percent of those with psoriasis get it before age 10
Some infants have psoriasis, although this is considered rare
Annually, 20,000 children under 10 years of age are diagnosed with psoriasis
Severity of Psoriasis
About 30 percent of people with psoriasis have cases that are considered moderate to severe (generally meaning it covers more than 3 percent of their body)
More than 1.5 million Americans have moderate to severe psoriasis
Severe types of psoriasis can compromise the skin's ability to control body temperature and prevent infections
30 percent of patients under a dermatologist's care have psoriasis so extensive or difficult to control that prescription topical (rub on) therapies are not adequate
Quality of Life Impact
75 percent of people with moderate to severe psoriasis report that their disease has a moderate to large impact on their everyday lives:
26 percent alter their normal daily activities
21 percent stop their normal daily activities
40 percent say their psoriasis affects their clothing choices (avoiding dark colors, covering up arms and legs)
36 percent say it affects how they sleep
36 percent report bathing more than normal(based on results of National Psoriasis Foundation 2001 Benchmark Survey on Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis)
Facts
Psoriasis appears to be slightly more prevalent in women than in men
Psoriasis may disqualify a person from serving in the U.S. military
On average, 350 people die from psoriasis or complications of its treatment annually
400 people a year are granted disability by the Social Security Administration because of psoriasis
Psoriatic Arthritis
About 1 million people in the U.S. population have psoriatic arthritis; that equals about 0.5 percent of the country
Between 10 percent and 30 percent of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis usually develops between the ages of 30 and 50, but it can develop at any time
Generally psoriasis appears before the psoriatic arthritis, but it can develop without the characteristic skin lesions
There are five types of psoriatic arthritis
Psoriasis Patients
Psoriasis patients make nearly 2.4 million visits to dermatologists each year
Overall costs of treating psoriasis may exceed $3 billion annually
150,000 to 260,000 cases of psoriasis are diagnosed each year
Genetic
If one parent has psoriasis, children have a 10 percent to 25 percent chance of developing psoriasis
If both parents have psoriasis, children have a 50 percent chance
Worldwide
Psoriasis affects an estimated 1 percent to 3 percent of the world's population

Genetic Disposition for Psoriasis

Supporting evidence for genetic predisposition includes:
There is a higher-than-average incidence of psoriasis in relatives of people with psoriasis, indicating "familial tendency" to develop the disease; however, in some people with psoriasis no family history is evident.
There is an increased incidence of psoriasis in children when one or both parents has psoriasis.
In studies of identical and nonindentical twins, psoriasis is much more likely to appear in both identical twins than in both nonidentical twins, a finding that also confirms that more than one gene must be inherited to establish genetic predisposition for psoriasis.
There is a higher than expected frequency of certain white cell antigens (Class I human leucocyte antigens or HLAs) on cells of people with psoriasis and their close relatives; this finding also supports psoriasis inheritability and also suggests that the gene(s) involved in psoriasis may be on the same chromosome that holds the genes for HLA. There are many types of HLA in the HLA complex, and studies have shown that HLA type may be associated in some degree with timing of disease onset, type of psoriasis, and disease severity.
While the genetics of psoriasis remain to be worked out in detail, much is already known about patterns of inheritability. Persons with psoriasis who are worried about "passing it on" to children may wish to ask their dermatologist for genetic counseling.

Treating Psoriasis With Dermatitis-Ltd

Dermatitis-Ltd will improve the appearence of the various forms of psoriasis. Overall, 98% of Dermatitis-Ltd III users confirm that they have found noticeable improvement in the beauty of their skin. Dermatitis-Ltd III does not cause a stain on clothes or bedding, does not smell, dries within 2 to 5 minutes depending on humidity conditions, and is always invisible on the skin.

Causes of Psoriasis

Researchers believe the immune system sends faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle in skin cells. Certain people carry genes that make them more likely to develop psoriasis, but not everyone with these genes develops psoriasis. Instead, a "trigger" makes the psoriasis appear in those who have these genes. Also, some triggers may work together to cause an outbreak of psoriasis; this makes it difficult to identify individual factors.Possible psoriasis triggers include: emotional stress; injury to the skin; some types of infection; reaction to certain drugs. Once the disease is triggered, the skin cells pile up on the surface of the body faster than normal. In people without psoriasis, skin cells mature and are shed about every 28 days. In psoriatic skin, the skin cells move rapidly up to the surface of the skin over three to six days. The body can't shed the skin cells fast enough and this process results in patches also called "lesions" forming on the skin's surface.

Treating the Cause of Psoriasis

Researchers believe the immune system sends faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle in skin cells. Certain people carry genes that make them more likely to develop psoriasis, but not everyone with these genes develops psoriasis. Instead, a "trigger" makes the psoriasis appear in those who have these genes. Also, some triggers may work together to cause an outbreak of psoriasis; this makes it difficult to identify individual factors.Possible psoriasis triggers include: emotional stress; injury to the skin; some types of infection; reaction to certain drugs. Once the disease is triggered, the skin cells pile up on the surface of the body faster than normal. In people without psoriasis, skin cells mature and are shed about every 28 days. In psoriatic skin, the skin cells move rapidly up to the surface of the skin over three to six days. The body can't shed the skin cells fast enough and this process results in patches also called "lesions" forming on the skin's surface

Advancements in Treating Psoriasis

A new category of drugs to treat psoriasis is called "biologics." These turn off or block certain processes within the immune system that lead to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Amevive and Raptiva were approved for psoriasis treatment in 2003.

Enbrel is approved for both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Remicade (generic name infliximab) and Humira (generic name adalimumab) are also in development for psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis.

Your physician may prescribe a biologic if other treatments do not work on your psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

THE MYTHS SURROUNDING PSORIASIS

There are many contradicting myths about psoriasis, its causes and its treatments. These misconceptions contribute to the social stigma faced by people with psoriasis, adding to the burden of managing the disease.
MYTH
Psoriasis is contagious.
FACT
Abnormal growth of skin cells in psoriasis results in thick, red, scaly, inflamed patches of skin, which are highly visible but not contagious.
MYTH
Psoriasis is just a skin disease.
FACT
Researchers have concluded that psoriasis is actually a disease of the immune system that causes the abnormal growth of skin cells. While a normal skin cell matures in 28 to 30 days and is shed from the skin's surface unnoticed, a psoriatic skin cell takes only 3 to 4 days to mature and move to the surface, resulting in cells piling up and forming the elevated red lesions.
MYTH
Psoriasis is easily diagnosed.
FACT
Diagnosing psoriasis may at times be difficult, as its initial symptoms can be mistaken for other dermatologic diseases such as eczema.
MYTH
Psoriasis can be cured.
FACT
Psoriasis is a chronic, life-long disease. There is no known cure, but psoriasis can be managed with treatments.
MYTH
There is a link between psoriasis and liver and kidney problems.
FACT
There is no known link between psoriasis and liver and kidney problems. Some psoriasis treatments may have adverse effects on the liver and kidneys.
MYTH
Psoriasis is caused by poor hygiene.
FACT
Psoriasis is a disease of the immune system and has nothing to do with poor hygiene. Triggers that can influence the course of psoriasis include infections, stress or worry, hormonal changes, injury to the skin, alcohol, obesity, poor diet, and certain medications.
MYTH
Psoriasis cannot be inherited.
FACT
In approximately one out of three patients, there is a family history of psoriasis. However, the disease also develops in people with no family history.
MYTH
The "heartbreak of psoriasis" is just a saying.
FACT
The psychological and emotional impact of psoriasis can be debilitating, especially when the disease is present on the hands, feet or face, where it can obstruct physical and social abilities. People with psoriasis report feeling embarrassed, angry, frustrated, depressed and even suicidal and often compare the dysfunction and disabilities to those experienced with other chronic diseases such as diabetes or cancer.

Treating Psoriasis in Winter

It’s important to increase your use of moisturizing creams and ointments during the winter, applying heavy layers, especially over the skin affected by psoriasis. It is helpful to apply the moisturizing cream while your skin is damp. Also, be sure to pat yourself dry after bathing—don’t rub yourself with the towel.

During the winter months, the humidity is generally lower, especially in homes with forced air heating. This tends to cause dry, itchy skin. Scratching affected skin will worsen your psoriasis and can even cause new lesions to form. Thus, it is important not to scratch, pick, or scrub psoriasis lesions.

Portal for Psoriasis Information

At the International Eczema-Psoriasis Foundation you will find information about eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, guttate psoriasis, their symptoms, causes and treatments.

You will be able to distinguish between eczema and similar conditions such as contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, stasis dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, contact eczema, light sensitive eczema, juvenile plantar eczema, eczema craquele, eczema herpeticum, atopic eczema, infantile eczema, adult seborrheic eczema, varicose eczema, discoid eczema, dyshidrotic eczema, palmoplantar psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, scalp & ear psoriasis, and nail psoriasis.

Treatment, symptoms and medications used in the treatment of eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and skin conditions that co-exist with dermatitis, such as adult acne, lupus, and rosacea will be presented.

The informative text on eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis discusses treatment, causes, and lifestyle changes that help treat dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

Treating Psoriasis Today

Today, treatment of psoriasis can be divided into three basic categories:

-- Topical treatment (treatments applied to the skin)

-- Phototherapy or a combination of phototherapy and medications

-- Systemic treatment (medications taken by tablet or injection)

A number of factors will determine which treatment will best suit a person with psoriasis.
These include:
-- The type of psoriasis
-- Its location on the body
-- Its severity
-- The person's age and medical history
-- The person's response to previous therapy

Five Types of Psoriasis

There are five different types of psoriasis.

The most common form of psoriasis is called "plaque psoriasis," which is characterized by well-defined patches of red, raised skin. About 80 percent of people with psoriasis have this type. Plaque psoriasis can appear on any skin surface, although the knees, elbows, scalp, trunk and nails are the most common locations.

The other types of psoriasis are: Guttate described as small, red, individual drops on the skin.

Inverse psoriasis is smooth, dry areas of skin, often in folds or creases, that are red and inflamed but do not have scaling.

Erythrodermic psoriasis is characterized as periodic, widespread, fiery redness of the skin.

Pustular psoriasis which involves either generalized, widespread areas of reddened skin, or localized areas, particularly the hands and feet (palmo-plantar pustular psoriasis).

Typically, people have only one form of psoriasis at a time. Sometimes two different types can occur together, one type may change to another type, or one type may become more severe. For example, a trigger may convert plaque psoriasis to pustular.

More Psoriasis Facts

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition affecting approximately 4.5 million people in the United States.

New skin cells grow too rapidly, resulting in inflamed, swollen, scaly patches of skin in areas where the old skin has not shed quickly enough.

Psoriasis can be limited to a few spots or can involve more extensive areas of the body, appearing most commonly on the scalp, knees, elbows and trunk.

Psoriasis is not a contagious disease.

The cause of psoriasis is unknown, and there currently is no cure.

Psoriasis can strike people at any age, but the average age of onset is approximately 28 years. Likewise, it affects both men and women, with a slightly higher prevalence in women than in men.

Approximately 30 percent of people with psoriasis are estimated to have moderate-to-severe forms of the disease.

Psoriasis can be a physically and emotionally painful condition. It often results in physical limitations, disfiguration and a significant burden in managing the daily care of the disease.

Psoriasis sufferers may feel embarrassed, angry, frustrated, fearful, depressed and, in some cases, even suicidal.

Determining The Best Psoriasis Treatment

Treatment of psoriasis is determined by the location, severity and history of psoriasis in each individual. There is no one method of treatment, for each person with psoriasis may respond differently.

One main objective of treatment is to slow down the more rapid than usual growth rate of the skin cells. The rapid growth rate of skin cells causes the red, scaly psoriasis patches. The underlying cause of this increased skin growth is not yet known.

For patients with minimal psoriasis, therapy is limited to topical medications that are drugs applied to the skin.

For patients with moderate to widespread psoriasis, topical treatments are often combined with ultraviolet light therapy. Either sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light therapy can be used. If topical and ultraviolet light therapy are not effective, or are not practical, systemic or oral medications can be used. These may be combined with ultraviolet light therapy, the so-called photo-chemotherapy or PUVA therapy.

In severe cases and unresponsive cases of psoriasis, there are oral medications that slow down the growth rate of skin which are helpful. These drugs can have significant side effects and have to be used with the proper safeguard and caution. Even these strong drugs do not cure psoriasis but only help to control the disease.

Treating Psoriasis with Moisture

Preventative psoriasis treatment puts a major emphasis on keeping the skin well moisturized.
Drinking plenty of water will aid in keeping the body and the skin well hydrated. When water isn't enough, moisturize!

Moisturizers or emollients including bath oils, soap substitutes can be applied to the areas of psoriasis as frequently as required to relieve itching, scaling and dryness.

Emollients should also be used on the unaffected skin to reduce dryness. Emollient therapy helps to restore one of the skin's most important functions, which is to form a barrier to prevent bacteria and viruses getting into the body and therefore help to prevent a rash becoming infected.

Emollients are safe and rarely cause an allergic reaction.

Occasionally, products with lanolin may cause a reaction. Ideally, moisturizers should be applied three to four times a day. Apply in a gentle downward motion in the direction of hair growth to prevent accumulation of cream around the hair follicle (this can cause infection of the follicle).

Facts And Causes Surrounding Psoriasis

There are many beliefs as to the cause of psoriasis.

Although no one knows for sure, many scientists believe that a biochemical stimulus triggers the abnormally high skin growth which will in turn cause the skin lesions (National Psoriasis Foundation).

Heredity also plays a role in the development of psoriasis. Individuals who have a family member with a severe case of psoriasis tend to experience early onset of the disease (Camisa 55).

Recent research studies indicate that psoriasis may be a disorder of the immune system. The T cell, a white blood cell, normally works to fight off infection and disease. Scientists believe that having an abnormal immune system may cause abnormal activity by T cells in the skin. These abnormally active T cells cause skin inflammation and increased cell production.

Diet and vitamin influences are thought to play a role in psoriasis development and progression of psoriasis. (Kligman 729).

Because psoriasis is a lifelong condition, the levels of its severity and improvement can fluctuate over time.

Psoriasis is not a contagious skin condition.

An individual instead, has a genetic predisposition for psoriasis, which can be activated by certain environmental factors or emotional stress.

Individuals with psoriasis may find that their condition tends to flare up due to stress, certain medications, winter weather, and infections (ICN Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).

Most often psoriasis affects the scalp, knees, elbows, hands, and feet (National Psoriasis Foundation).