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The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
George K. Verghese, MD
Psoriasis Requires Vigilance
Mid-Atlantic Skin Surgery Institute
. https://midatlanticskinsurgery.com/

Psoriasis Requires Vigilance

Psoriasis is the most common autoimmune disease in the U.S. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, as many as 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic, noncontiguous disease that appears on the skin. It occurs when the immune system sends out faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle of skin cells. The disease is associated with other serious health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and depression.

Studies indicate that psoriasis develops about equally in males and females. Research also shows that Caucasians develop psoriasis more frequently than other races. A study conducted in the U.S. found the prevalence was 2.5% in Caucasians and 1.3% in African Americans.

It appears that a family history of psoriasis may increase the risk of developing psoriasis. However, it is important to know that a family history of psoriasis does not guarantee that someone will develop psoriasis.

Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of the disease. It appears as raised reddish patches on the skin, and the patches may be covered with a silvery-white coating. These often itchy patches can appear anywhere on the skin; however, most patches appear on the knees, elbows, lower back, and scalp.

Thanks to ongoing research, there are many treatments for psoriasis. It is important for individuals suffering from psoriasis to establish a relationship with a dermatologist to help find treatment that works for them and fits their lifestyle. Every treatment has benefits, drawbacks, and possible side effects.

Treating moderate to severe psoriasis usually involves a combination of treatment strategies. Besides topical treatments, phototherapy (also known as light therapy) and/or systemic medications, including biologic drugs, may be prescribed.

Unfortunately, not all treatments work for all people, and psoriasis patients often have to try multiple treatments before identifying one that does work.

It is very important that individuals with psoriasis take an active role in managing their disease. By taking being proactive and working in partnership with their dermatologist, patients can reduce the effects that psoriasis has on their quality of life.

Additional information about psoriasis is available online from the American Academy of Dermatology by visiting SkinCarePhysicians.com.

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