What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is one of the most commonly encountered conditions in dermatology practice. It is an itchy skin condition with a chronic, remitting and relapsing course. It can affect any part of the body but most commonly occurs on the scalp, elbows and knees as well-defined, red, raised patches with silvery scales. It is an inherited condition but many cases arise in individuals with no reported family history of psoriasis. It is a distressing condition which can lead to reduced self-esteem.
How can psoriasis be treated?
Mild to moderate psoriasis can be treated with soap substitutes, emollients (moisturizers) and topical applications containing coal tar, dithranol, steroids, vitamin A and D3 derivatives. More resistant cases may need phototherapy or drugs that suppress the immune system.