Psoriasis Flashcards
what is psoriasis
a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the skin causing scaly plaques with relapsing remitting course
describe the pathogenesis of psoriasis
hyperproliferation causing increased epidermal turnover
infiltration of inflammatory cells
what is the Kobner phenomenon
when trauma affects the skin it causes a flare up of the disease eg psoriasis
what is the most common type of psoriasis
chronic plaque psoriasis/psoriasis vulgaris
describe the clinical presentation of chronic plaque psoriasis
symmetrical involvement of extensor surfaces - elbows, knees, scalp, hands and feet
well defined red plaques with silvery scale
describe the nail involvement in psoriasis
onycholysis - separation from nail bed
subungal hyperkeratosis
pitting
describe the presentation of guttate psoriasis
lots of small plaques on the trunk and limbs
usually presents following a strep infection
what is the first line management for psoriasis
topical steroid eg betnovate + vitamin D analogue both once daily for 4 weeks
what is the second line management for psoriasis
steroid + vit D analogue twice daily
what is the third line treatment for psoriasis
potent steroid + coal tar to use for 4 weeks
when is dithranol used
for a short term treatment for localised plaques
how is scalp psoriasis treated
topical steroid lotion and vitamin D analogue for 8 weeks
