Psoriasis

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Psoriasis on the knuckles

For patients with severe disease, a newer option is treatment with medicines referred to as biologics.These are proteins and therefore must be injected rather than taken orally. They target the cause of psoriasis by interfering with the body's inflammatory response. Alefacept (Amevive), efalizumab (Raptiva), etanercept (Enbrel), and infliximab (Remicade) are FDA-approved for treatment of psoriasis. Adalimumab (Humira) is approved by the FDA for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, but not as yet for psoriasis alone. These medications are very expensive, however, and like all medications they may have side effects. They are therefore not used as first-line therapy but can be used when other treatments have not worked.

Maintain good general health to reduce the risk of flare-ups. Obtain adequate rest and exercise, eat a well-balanced diet and avoid stress (see stress management). Treat strep throat and other infections promptly.

Maintain good skin hygiene to prevent secondary infections. Daily baths or showers are recommended. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate the skin and cause new outbreaks.

Oatmeal baths may be soothing and may help to loosen scales. Commercial preparations may be used, or mix one cup of oatmeal into a tub of warm water.

If having psoriasis is causing significant stress, consider joining a psoriasis support group with members who share common experiences and problems.

Psoriasis is a chronic, lifelong condition that can be controlled with treatment. It can clear for extended periods and relapse. It usually does not adversely affect general health, unless it is neglected.

• Complications that result from the treatment itself
• Secondary skin infections

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate psoriasis. Call for an appointment if psoriasis recurs frequently despite treatment. Let your provider know if your psoriasis seems to be accompanied by joint pain or fever.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if there is a severe outbreak which covers all or most of the body.

Also, seek medical attention if pustules, fever, muscle aches, fatigue or other new or unexplained symptoms develop.

Review Date: 07/27/2006
Reviewed By: Shlomit Halachmi, MD, PhD, Private Practice Specializing in Dermatology, Somerville, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.