Psoriasis Infusion Therapy

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the skin's surface. This leads to the formation of thick, scaly patches that can be itchy, red, and sometimes painful. It's an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body but often affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. While not contagious, it's a long-lasting condition that typically goes through cycles of flaring up and calming down. Stress, infections, and certain medications can trigger or worsen psoriasis. Although there's no cure, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve the appearance of affected skin. Psoriasis can impact quality of life, but with proper care, many people effectively control their condition.

Download Referral Form

Symptoms

Symptoms

Common symptoms of psoriasis include:

Red, raised patches of skin
Silvery-white scales on the red patches
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Itching or burning sensation
Thick, pitted nails
Swollen and stiff joints
These symptoms can vary in severity and location, and may include:
Small, scaly spots (commonly in children)
Smooth, red patches in body folds (inverse psoriasis)
Widespread redness and scales (erythrodermic psoriasis)
Pus-filled bumps (pustular psoriasis)

Symptoms often occur in cycles, with periods of worsening (flares) followed by improvement or remission. If you notice persistent, unusual changes in your skin, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for psoriasis include:

Topical treatments:
Corticosteroid creams
Vitamin D analogues
Retinoids
Calcineurin inhibitors
Coal tar
Light therapy (phototherapy):
UVB light
PUVA (psoralen plus UVA light)
Systemic medications:
Methotrexate
Cyclosporine
Oral retinoids
Biologics:
TNF-alpha inhibitors (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept)
Interleukin inhibitors (e.g., ustekinumab, secukinumab)
Oral medications:
Apremilast
Newer oral treatments (e.g., deucravacitinib)
Lifestyle changes:
Moisturizing regularly
Avoiding triggers (stress, certain foods, alcohol)
Quitting smoking

Treatment plans are typically tailored to the individual based on the severity of psoriasis, affected areas, and patient preferences. The goal is to reduce inflammation, slow skin cell growth, and relieve symptoms.

Living With

Living with psoriasis means dealing with itchy, scaly skin patches that can flare up due to stress, weather, or infections. While not contagious, it can run in families and affect self-esteem. Managing the condition often involves a mix of treatments like creams, light therapy, or oral medications, along with lifestyle changes such as diet adjustments and stress reduction. Regular moisturizing helps soothe irritated skin, and symptoms may cycle through periods of improvement and worsening. Some individuals also experience joint pain, known as psoriatic arthritis. To effectively manage psoriasis, it's crucial to work closely with a dermatologist to find the most suitable treatment plan.