menu trigger  menu trigger
(02) 4067 4119Get Started215 High StreetMaitlandreception@elixirhunter.com.auEmail Us

Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by red, scaly plaques caused by the body’s overproduction of skin cells. Normally, skin cells renew over a month, but in psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days. This rapid turnover leads to flaking, redness, and inflammation.

Psoriasis affects about 2–4% of the population and is not contagious, but its visible nature can significantly impact physical, emotional, and social well-being. With appropriate treatment and management, psoriasis symptoms can be controlled, flares minimised, and quality of life improved.

Who Gets Psoriasis?

  • Psoriasis can occur at any age but typically peaks between 15–25 years and 50–60 years.
  • It is more common in Caucasians but can affect people of any ethnicity.
  • One-third of individuals with psoriasis have a family history of the condition.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated genetic skin disease, involving an interaction between the immune system and genetic predisposition. Certain triggers may worsen psoriasis, including:

  • Infections (e.g., strep throat)
  • Skin injuries (cuts, burns, or sunburn)
  • Stress and emotional events
  • Cold, dry weather
  • Obesity, smoking, or alcohol consumption
  • Certain medications (e.g., beta-blockers, lithium)

What Does Psoriasis Look Like?

  • Red, scaly plaques with clearly defined edges.
  • Silvery white scaling, except in skin folds where plaques appear shiny or moist.
  • Common sites include the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
  • Symptoms may include itching, skin cracking, or painful fissures, especially on the palms and soles.
  • Psoriasis can result in post-inflammatory pigmentation changes (dark or pale marks) that fade over time.

Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is classified based on appearance, severity, and body location. Common types include:

  1. Plaque Psoriasis (most common): Red plaques with silvery scales.
  2. Guttate Psoriasis: Small red spots, often triggered by infections like strep throat.
  3. Scalp Psoriasis: Affects the scalp with flaking similar to dandruff.
  4. Palmoplantar Psoriasis: Involves the palms and soles, sometimes causing painful fissures.
  5. Pustular Psoriasis: White pustules surrounded by inflamed skin.
  6. Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Severe inflammation and redness across large areas of skin.

Associated Health Conditions

Psoriasis is linked to several health conditions, including:

  • Psoriatic arthritis: Affects the joints in up to 40% of patients.
  • Metabolic syndrome: Includes obesity, hypertension, and insulin resistance.
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and liver disease.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease and uveitis (eye inflammation).

How is Psoriasis Treated?

While there is no cure, effective treatments can reduce symptoms, clear plaques, and prevent flare-ups.

General Lifestyle Advice

  • Stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
  • Maintain a healthy weight and manage stress levels.
  • Use moisturisers to prevent dry skin.

Topical Treatments (for mild cases)

  • Emollients and moisturisers: Reduce dryness and scaling.
  • Vitamin D analogs (e.g., calcipotriol): Slow skin cell growth.
  • Topical corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation.
  • Coal tar preparations, dithranol, and salicylic acid: Help with scaling and itching.
  • Calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus): For sensitive areas like the face.

Phototherapy

  • UVB phototherapy: Exposes the skin to controlled ultraviolet light.
  • PUVA: Combines UV light with a photo sensitising medication.
  • Excimer laser: Targets small, localised plaques.

Systemic Treatments (for moderate to severe cases)

  • Methotrexate: Reduces inflammation.
  • Cyclosporine: Suppresses the immune system.
  • Acitretin: A retinoid that slows skin cell turnover.

Biologic Therapies

  • Reserved for severe cases or psoriatic arthritis and these medications target specific inflammatory pathways,

Managing Psoriasis Long-Term

Psoriasis flares are unpredictable, but effective management programs can improve symptoms and prevent recurrence. At Elixir @ Hunter Skin cancer clinic, we help patients:

  • Clear plaques and manage flares with customised treatment plans.
  • Identify triggers and provide lifestyle guidance.
  • Access ongoing support and treatment options to maintain long-term control.

Don’t let psoriasis impact your life. With personalised care, expert advice, and the latest treatments, we’re here to help you regain control and confidence. Book an appointment now to get help.

Links

Copyright ElixirHunter 2023. All rights reserved.