Psoriasis

Question 1

Scaly plaques at belows, knees and shins (extensor surfaces) is buzzword for

Answer 1

Psoriasis

Question 2

Nail signs of psoriasis?

Answer 2

Pitting and onycholysis

Question 3

Psoriasis is present in which % of adults?

Answer 3

2%

Question 4

The cause of psoriasis is singular (genetic). True/false?

Answer 4

False - also environmental component (e.g. infection, drugs, stress)

Question 5

The commonest form of psoriasis is….

Answer 5

Plaque

Question 6

Psoriasis is usually asymmetrical. True/false?

Answer 6

False

Question 7

Typical plaque psoriasis description includes (3)

Answer 7

-Sharply demarcated -Scaly -Erythemateous plaques

Question 8

Koebner phenomenon is not present in psoriasis. True/false?

Answer 8

False

Question 9

Koebner phenomenon is….

Answer 9

Psoriasis will develop in areas of skin trauma

Question 10

Auspitz’ sign is….

Answer 10

Bleeding when psoriasis scale is removed

Question 11

Nail dystrophy / subungual hyperkeratosis is a common feature of psoriasis. True/false?

Answer 11

True

Question 12

Psoriasis patients have a life expectancy reduced by X years. Why is this?

Answer 12

X = 4 years. Due to increased CVD risk (3x more likely to have MI)

Question 13

What are the topical therapies for psoriasis (no particular order)? (5)

Answer 13

-Emollients (non-greasy) -Steroid ointments (stretch marks, thinning) -Coal tar (messy, smelly) -Dithranol (stains clothes, burning sensation) -Vitamin D analogues (e.g. calcipotriol, burning sensation).

Question 14

What phototherapies are available for psoriasis? How effective are they?

Answer 14

-UVB and PUVA Around 75% of patients have remission for 6-12 months

Question 15

What systemic treatments for psoriasis are available? (2)

Answer 15

-Immunosuppresants -Biologics

Question 16

A patient comes to see you with rashes on the following areas. With nothing else, what skin condition is likely?

Answer 16

Psoriasis (extensors, knees, scalp)