Psoriasis - guttate

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Psoriasis, guttate on the arms and chest

Psoriasis, guttate on the cheek

Guttate psoriasis

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 include:

• Prescription or nonprescription dandruff shampoos
• Shampoos or lotions that contain coal tar
• Cortisone or other corticosteroids
• Lubricants
• Vitamin D containing medications (Dovonex)
• 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.

Psoriasis is not curable, but it can be controlled with treatment.

• Pain
• Severe itching
• Complications secondary to treatments
• Secondary skin infections

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate guttate psoriasis.

Review Date: 04/30/2005
Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.