Psoriasis Flashcards
def
a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterised by red well defined scaly papules and plaques
what are papules
a small pimple or swelling on the skin, often forms part of a rash
where is psoriasis normally found
elbows, knees, extensor limbs, scalp
how long does psoriasis last normally
for life
with a fluctuating course of exacerbations and remission
epi
often young adults (men=women)
white>black
what condition is associated with psoriasis
psoriatic arthritis
aetiology
unknown
what has been associated with aetiology of psoriasis
1 genetics -strong family history 2 immunology 3 infection -guttate psoriasis is often seen following an URTI
what drugs aggravate psoriasis
cessation of corticosteroids
anti-malarials
lithium
BBs
what condition aggravates psoriasis
HIV
what are the 4 main types of psoriasis
1 plaque psoriasis -raised inflamed plaque lesions 2 guttate psoriasis -widespread red fine scaly papules often after a URTI 3 pustular psoriasis 4 erythroderma
risk factors
1 genetics (family history) 2 infection (guttate psoriasis is common after an URTI with strep) 3 trauma
what is it called when psoriasis appears after trauma
koebner phenomenon
history
classically red, well defined scaly papules and plaques on elbows, knees, extensor surfaces of limbs, scalp
often itchy or burning
examination of plaque psoriasis
raised inflamed plaque lesions with superficial silvery-white scaly eruption
