Psoriasis

Question 1

What is psoriasis?

Answer 1

Autoimmune inflammatory condition

Hyperproliferation of keratinocytes + inflammatory cell infiltration

Question 2

What are the triggers for flare ups of psoriasis?

Answer 2

Stress
Alcohol 
Trauma 
B-blockers
NSAIDs
Lithium 
ACEi

Question 3

What are the types of psoriasis?

Answer 3

Plaque
Flexural
Guttate
Pustular

Question 4

What are the features of plaque psoriasis?

Answer 4

Red, scaly symmetrical patches

Extensor surfaces + scalp

Question 5

What are the features of flexural psoriasis?

Answer 5

Red smooth patches

Flexor surfaces

Question 6

What are the features of guttate psoriasis?

Answer 6

More common in children/adolescents

Follows a streptococcal infection

Teardrop scaly erythematous papules

Trunk + limbs

Question 7

How is guttate psoriasis managed?

Answer 7

Self limiting (2-3 months)

Emollients
Topical steroids

Question 8

What are features of pustular psoriasis?

Answer 8

Sterile pustules

Palms + soles

Question 9

What are the other signs of psoriasis?

Answer 9

Nail pitting
Onycholysis
Psoriatic arthritis

Question 10

What is the management of psoriasis?

Answer 10

Emollients

8-12 weeks of topical steroid + vit D analogue

Question 11

What are the types of topical steroid? (mild to stronger)

Answer 11

Hydrocortisone
Eumovate
Betnovate

Question 12

What is the mechanism of vit D analogues?

Answer 12

Reduce cell differentiation

Reduce cell division