Dermatology/ Psoriasis

Question 1

Describe the most common primary lesion of psoriasis.

Answer 1

Well-demarcated, pink plaques with silvery-white scales

Question 2

Describe the primary components in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

Answer 2

• Hyperproliferation and abnormal differentiation in the epidermis with concomitant inflammatory cell infiltrates and vascular changes

Question 3

What are the five different types of psoriasis and their characteristic signs?

Answer 3

Question 4

Approximately what percentage of patients with psoriasis also has psoriatic arthritis?

Answer 4

30%

Question 5

Name three classes of drugs that can exacerbate existing psoriasis or result in psoriatic drug eruptions.

Answer 5

1. Beta-blockers
2. Antimalarials
3. Lithium

Question 6

When evaluating a rash, involvement in which areas of the body should raise your suspicion for psoriasis?

Answer 6

The presence of lesions in the scalp, umbilicus, intergluteal cleft, and nail plate

Question 7

What is Koebner phenomenon?

Answer 7

The development of psoriasis in areas exposed to physical trauma

Question 8

What is the Auspitz sign?

Answer 8

Presence of bleeding within the psoriatic lesion upon removal of scales

Question 9

Name some treatment options for mild, localized plaque psoriasis.

Answer 9

• emollients
• topical corticosteroids
• topical retinoids
• calcipotriene
• classical tar

Question 10

What type of therapy should be considered in widespread psoriasis?

Answer 10

• Phototherapy with ultraviolet light
• oral retinoids
• methotrexate
• immunomodulatory drugs (eg, etanercept, efalizumab)