PSORIASIS Flashcards
What is psoriasis?
Chronic inflammatory condition, characterised by scaly erythematous plaques
Is psoriasis contagious?
No
What other diseases is it associated with?
Psoriatic arthiritis (seronegative arthropathy)
What is the pathogenesis of psoriasis?
Hyperproliferative epidermis. Dilation of blood vessels in dermis + inflammation of inflammatory cells (T cells + neutrophils)
Name some triggers for psoriasis (at least 4)
Stress Infection Skin trauma (Kobner phenomenon) Drugs (NSAIDs, Lithium, BB, Anti-malarials) Alcohol
What are the nail changes that occur with psoriasis?
Nail pitting
Onycholysis - Separation from nail bed
Thickening
Subungual Hyperkeratosis
Name 5 different types of psoriasis
Chronic Plaque Flexor Plaque Guttate Pustular Erythrodermic
What is the most common type?
Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Where does chronic plaque psoriasis usually present?
Extensor aspects of elbows, knees, scalp, sacrum
Flexor psoriasis is commonly misdiagnosed as….
Fungal infection
Guttate psoriasis involves…?
Large number of small plaques on trunk and limbs
What commonly causes guttate psoriasis?
Infection, often lasts 3/4 months
What characterises pustular psoriasis and where is it commonly found?
Red skin + white elevations of pus
Usually found on hands and feet
Most common treatment for psoriasis?
TOPICAL CORTICOSTEROIDS
+ UVA, PUVA
What is the maximum amount of time you should have patients on a potent steroid?
8 weeks
