Psoriasis Flashcards
1
Q
What is the pathogenesis of psoriasis?
A
hyperproliferation of epidermal cells with increased cell turnover, dilation + proliferation of dermal blood vessels and accumulation of inflammatory cells (esp T cells)
2
Q
What factors precipitate psoriasis?
A
emotional stress infection alcohol smoking drugs: beta-blockers, lithium and antimalarials, steroids
3
Q
What infection triggers guttate psoriasis?
A
streptococcal sore throat
4
Q
What is the Koebner phenomenon?
A
trauma precipitates psoriasis
5
Q
What is seen on histology of psoriasis?
A
thickened parakeratotic stratum corneum
munro microabsesces
no granular layer
6
Q
What are the clinical variants of psoriasis?
A
chronic plaque
guttate
flexural
palmoplantar pustular
7
Q
What is Auspitz sign?
A
removal of plaque reveals pin point bleeding
8
Q
Manage flare of plaque psoriasis
A
Topical steroid + calcipotriol (vitamin D analogue)
