Skin and Respiratory - Psoriasis Flashcards
(14 cards)
Q: What is Psoriasis?
A: Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune condition characterized by the rapid proliferation of skin cells, leading to the formation of red, scaly plaques. It is a T-cell-mediated inflammatory disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply too quickly. This leads to thick, silvery scales and inflammation.
Q: What are the common clinical symptoms of Psoriasis?
A:
Symmetric, well-defined, salmon-colored plaques with thick, silvery scales.
Commonly affects the scalp, elbows, knees, buttocks, ankles, and the umbilicus.
Nail involvement is frequent, with pitting, flaking, and ‘oil drop’ stippling (yellowish-brown spots under the nail plate).
The condition is often exacerbated in winter and improves in tropical climates.
Q: What is the pathogenesis of Psoriasis?
A:
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder caused by a deregulated T-cell-mediated inflammatory response.
Initiation Phase: Triggers stimulate keratinocytes to activate dendritic cells, producing cytokines that promote T-helper cell differentiation.
Maintenance Phase: T-helper cells continue to release cytokines, leading to keratinocyte proliferation and further inflammatory responses.
Q: What are the complications associated with Psoriasis?
A:
Psoriatic arthritis (found in 30% of psoriasis patients).
Cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Depression and other mental health concerns.
Ocular disorders, such as uveitis.
Q: What are the causes and risk factors for Psoriasis?
A:
Genetics: The most significant susceptibility gene is PSORS1, linked to HLA-Cw6.
Trauma: Psoriasis lesions can appear following skin injury, known as the Koebner phenomenon.
Infections: Bacterial infections (e.g., streptococcus) and fungal infections (e.g., Candida) can trigger flare-ups.
Medications: Drugs like lithium, beta-blockers, and NSAIDs can worsen psoriasis.
Environmental factors: Air pollution and high toxic loads (such as alcohol) may exacerbate psoriasis.
Lifestyle: Smoking, high alcohol consumption, metabolic syndrome, and chronic stress are linked to increased psoriasis severity.
Q: What natural approaches can help manage Psoriasis?
A:
Diet: A naturopathic diet rich in fiber, antioxidants, EPA/DHA (from fish oil), and supporting detoxification through juices and fasting.
Probiotics & Prebiotics: Support gut health and reduce inflammation.
Topical Treatments: Coconut oil (anti-fungal), neem (anti-inflammatory), aloe vera (soothing and reduces inflammation), and barberry bark (anti-microbial).
Stress Management: Meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques to reduce stress and inflammation.
Q: What dietary recommendations are helpful for Psoriasis?
A:
Avoid gluten and simple sugars to reduce inflammation.
Restrict red meat (which can amplify inflammation).
Focus on antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables to reduce oxidative stress.
Limit alcohol and smoking to reduce toxic load and inflammation.
Include healthy fats like omega-3s (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammatory responses.
Q: How does Vitamin D help in managing Psoriasis?
A:
Vitamin D plays a key role in downregulating inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, which are implicated in psoriasis. It may help reduce keratinocyte proliferation and promote proper cell differentiation, ultimately improving skin health.
Q: What role does Omega-3 oil play in Psoriasis management?
Omega-3 oils, particularly EPA and DHA, help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. They replace arachidonic acid in cell membranes, which is a key inflammatory mediator in psoriasis.
Q: How can stress impact Psoriasis?
Stress can trigger or worsen psoriasis by increasing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and affecting skin barrier function. High levels of cortisol, along with the release of adrenaline and norepinephrine during stress, can stimulate mast cells and increase inflammation, worsening psoriasis symptoms.
Q: What role do vitamins like A, E, and Zinc play in Psoriasis management?
Vitamin A (retinol): Promotes proper skin cell differentiation and inhibits excess keratinocyte proliferation.
Vitamin E: Has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Zinc: Helps regulate keratinocyte proliferation and supports immune function.
Q: What are the risks of untreated or poorly managed Psoriasis?
If left untreated or poorly managed, psoriasis can lead to:
Development of psoriatic arthritis, which can affect joints and mobility.
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
A greater likelihood of experiencing mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.
Skin infections due to compromised skin barrier function.
Q: How can Ayurvedic approaches help in treating Psoriasis?
Ayurveda emphasizes detoxification through methods like Panchakarma to cleanse the body and restore balance. Specific herbs like turmeric (anti-inflammatory), neem (antibacterial), and aloe vera (healing) are commonly used in Ayurvedic treatments to address inflammation and support the immune system.
Q: Can Psoriasis be cured?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition with no known cure. However, effective treatments can significantly reduce symptoms, control flare-ups, and improve quality of life. Management includes a combination of lifestyle changes, diet, stress management, topical treatments, and sometimes systemic medications.
