Psoriasis Treated by Dermatologists at Mercy in Baltimore

Psoriasis is a chronic disease that develops when the body mistakenly sends signals to the skin cells to reproduce too quickly. The body is unable to shed the excessive skin cells and patches of psoriasis may form anywhere on the body.

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown. The severity of psoriasis can vary greatly, from mild patches that can be a nuisance, to more severe cases that can be painful and disfiguring.

The signs and symptoms of psoriasis may vary depending on the severity of the condition. The most common symptoms of psoriasis include the following:

• Red patches of skin
• Small scaling spots
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
• Itching, burning or soreness
• Thickened, pitted or ridged nails
• Swollen and stiff joints

Your dermatologist will perform a physical examination in order to diagnose your condition. There are several types of psoriasis, including the following: 

• Plaque – The most common type of psoriasis affecting most of the body with red patches of skin.
• Guttate – A type of psoriasis of younger people that is typically triggered by a bacterial infection.
• Inverse – Psoriasis that is found in closed areas of the skin, such as the armpits, under the breasts and around the genitals.
• Pustular – An uncommon form of psoriasis that includes pus-filled blisters.
• Erythrodermic – The least common type and most severe type of psoriasis that covers the majority of the body in a red, peeling rash sometimes triggered by a sunburn or medication.

Treatment for psoriasis will vary depending on the type and severity. Most treatments include moisturizers to relieve dry skin. Topical medications, including creams and ointments, may be prescribed for mild rashes and irritations. In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed.

Treatment for severe cases of psoriasis may require the use of medications in combination with additional therapies, such as photodynamic therapy. Photodynamic therapy uses ultraviolet light at specific wavelengths to decrease inflammation in the skin and help slow the production of skin cells.

Psoriasis can be an unpredictable and challenging condition to treat. Be sure to discuss your symptoms and severity with Mercy’s dermatologists to determine what treatments are best for your needs.