Psoriasis Flashcards
What is psoriasis
a chronic inflammation disorder with a variable course
Etiology
idiopathic
- genetic component
- autoimmunity (but not self cell destruction)
Patho (in no particular order)
T cell autoimmune response
Skin trauma - T cells activated and release mediators - abnormal growth of keratinocytes and blood vessels
trauma - influx of inflammatory cells - tissue damage (cycle)
increased epidermal cell turnover = lesion
remission and exacerbation by stress, trauma, infection, drugs
what type of cell response is psoriasis
T cell response
why is it a vicious cycle
trauma cause influx of inflammatory cells that cause further trauma etc
why does a lesion form
increase epidermal cell turnover
what causes exacerbations
stress, infection, trauma, drugs
Manifestations
Psoriatic patches
Nail dystrophy and pitting
where are these psoriatic patches usually found
elbows, knees, scalp, sacral region
Complication that may arise from psoriasis
arthritis - psoriatic arthritis of the smaller, distal joints
Treatment
no cure
topical vit D: modulates keratinocytes and regulates T cells
topical rhetinoids: modulates keratinocytes and anti inflam
topical steroids: anti inflammatory
Severe Treatment
Methotrexate: interfers with cell growth
Cyclosporine: immunosuppressive for problematic T cells
Phototherapy
Biologic agent: TNF (tumor necrosis factor - to control proliferation of epidermal cells)
