Psoriasis

Question 1

What are 4 symptoms of psoriasis?

Answer 1

1. Well defined, red papules coalescing to erythematous plaques.
2. Red plaques often covered by a silvery scale.
3. Can occur anywhere on the body but often appear on the extensor areas such as the elbows/knees, or the trunk or scalp, or in the flexors.
4. Commonly have pitting of the fingernails.

Question 2

Does psoriasis require a counselling room?

Answer 2

Yes

Question 3

What is 1 red flag for referral with psoriasis?

Answer 3

1. Suspected but undiagnosed psoriasis

Question 4

Does psoriasis have a PSA self-care card?

Answer 4

Yes (Psoriasis)

Question 5

What is the preferred over-the-counter treatment combination for psoriasis?

Answer 5

QV® Cream (moisturising aqueous cream) with Hydrocortisone 1% cream (Dermaid)

Question 6

What are the directions for QV® Cream (moisturising aqueous cream) in psoriasis?

Answer 6

Adult and Children over 2 years: Apply regularly, at least 2 times daily to rehydrate the skin.

Question 7

What are 3 non-preferred over-the-counter options for psoriasis and why?

Answer 7

1. Eumovate® Cream (clobetasone 0.05%): potent and inappropriate in children under 12 years
2. Keratolytics: more likely to damage surrounding skin
3. Coal Tar: stains and smells

Question 8

Is QV® Cream (moisturising aqueous cream) safe in pregnancy?

Answer 8

Yes

Question 9

Is QV® Cream (moisturising aqueous cream) safe in breastfeeding?

Answer 9

Yes

Question 10

What is the age range for QV® Cream (moisturising aqueous cream)?

Answer 10

Safe in all ages

Question 11

What are the directions for Dermaid® Cream (Hydrocortisone 1%) in psoriasis?

Answer 11

Adult and children over 2 years: Apply to the affected areas 1 to 2 times daily as required for up to 7 days. DO NOT apply to broken skin. Note hydrocortisone is good for flare ups but prolonged use can cause skin atrophy

Question 12

Is Dermaid® Cream (Hydrocortisone 1%) safe in pregnancy?

Answer 12

Yes

Question 13

Is Dermaid® Cream (Hydrocortisone 1%) safe in breastfeeding?

Answer 13

Yes

Question 14

What is the age range for Dermaid® Cream (Hydrocortisone 1%)?

Answer 14

Safe in children over 2 years

Question 15

What is 1 piece of non-pharmacological advice for psoriasis?

Answer 15

1. Avoid trauma (such as scratching and sunburn), frequent use of soaps and detergents, and alcoholic beverages.

Question 16

What is a practice point to consider with psoriasis?

Answer 16

Tar, dithranol and salicylic acid can be irritating on the skin and should not be used in acute inflammatory psoriasis, on the face or in the flexures