psorasis Flashcards
what are the skin lesions of psorasis characterised by?
o Epidermal hyperproliferation — cells multiplying too quickly
o Abnormal keratinocyte differentiation — cells not maturing normally
o Lymphocyte inflammatory infiltrate — the presence of cells which cause inflammation
what are the symptoms of chronic plaque psorasis?
itch, irritation, burning, pain, bleeding, and scaling (usually silver-white in colour) that mainly affect the scalp, behind the ears, trunk, buttocks and extensor surfaces (forearms, shins, elbows, and knees)
what are the main known causes of psorasis?
amily history, medications (e.g. NSAIDs, ACEi, lithium, chloroquine, beta blockers and some antibiotics), hormonal changes, physical trauma and UV light exposure
what are the red flags of psorasis?
- Severe psoriasis
- Failure to OTC treatment
- Persistent exacerbations/flare ups
what is the lifestyle advice for psorasis?
• Avoid scratching the area of psoriasis (if possible), and simply rub the area with their fingers to alleviate itch
o Keep nails short to reduce the damage done during scratching
drug treatment options for psorasis?
• Tar-based preparations would be the primary option with these preparations having anti- inflammatory and anti-scaling properties
o A tar-based shampoo is first line for scalp psoriasis (e.g. Polytar®).
• Dithranol can be bought from the pharmacy at different strengths and is an effective
short-term treatment for chronic plaque psoriasis
o It is extremely irritant therefore should be applied using gloves and left for up to
60 minutes before washing off
• Patients with psoriasis can have low levels of vitamin D and a supplement may be useful
to maintain adequate levels and keep the skin healthy – refer to the GP for a blood test
and suitable vitamin D supplementation
• Topical steroids may be useful during a flare-up however do not posses a licence to be
supplied for the use of psoriasis and so these patients should be referred to their GP
