Psoriasis Disease State Management

Psoriasis is a non-contagious chronic skin disease that affects somewhere between 5.8 and 7.5 million US adults and over 125 million people worldwide according to the World Psoriasis Day consortium. Approximately 150,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, of which approximately 11% of those affected also have joint inflammation and develop a related form of arthritis called "psoriatic arthritis". Psoriasis is characterized by scaling and inflammation that develops as a result of an immune system mediated acceleration of skin cell growth. Although scientists have not identified the exact cause of psoriasis, it is believed to be a genetic condition that causes the immune system's role in psoriasis. There are five types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic. Each type presents with unique signs and symptoms. However, approximately 80% of people affected with psoriasis have plaque psoriasis which appears as patches of raised reddish skin covered by silvery-white scale. In severe cases, the itching and discomfort can keep a person awake at night and the pain can make everyday tasks difficult. People often experience flares and remissions throughout their life and controlling the signs and symptoms typically requires lifelong therapy.

Although there is no cure for psoriasis there are a variety of OTC and prescription treatment options that can clear psoriasis for periods of time. People often need to try different treatments before they find one that works for them. Some patients obtain relief with UV light treatments, oral and topical corticosteroids, water therapy, biologics, cyclosporine, methotrexate, soriatane, and/or changes in diet. Systemic medications are usually reserved for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis who are not responsive to conventional topical medications or ultraviolet (UV) light treatments.