Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that is common in society and progresses with exacerbations and improvements. The exact cause is unknown; The immune system, genetic and environmental factors are thought to be effective. Environmental factors (throat infections due to streptococci), some medications (cortisone, lithium, some blood pressure medications, aspirin, etc.), excessive alcohol intake, smoking, scratching, scrubbing and stress can trigger the disease. The disease is not contagious. Psoriasis vulgaris is the most common clinical type. It usually appears as a sharply circumscribed rash with pearl-coloured dandruff, which gives the disease its name. It is most commonly located on the knees, elbows, scalp and coccyx. Inverse psoriasis, palmoplantar psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, pustular psoriasis are other types. Joint and nail involvement may be seen.

Especially in those with severe psoriasis, the susceptibility to cardiovascular diseases may increase and diabetes is common.

Psoriasis can be controlled with appropriate treatment and long-term relief can be achieved. Medicines and behaviors that may exacerbate the disease should be avoided. In mild cases, local treatments are primarily used (drugs that remove dandruff on the skin surface, cortisone creams, anthralin, calcipotriol, calcineurin inhibitors). In severe cases, methotrexate, cyclosporine-A, acitretin (synthetic vitamin A) and phototherapy are used. If there is no response to these, biological agents (adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab, ustekinumab, etc.) can be chosen.

Psoriasis is a skin disease that progresses with exacerbations and is seen in 1-3 out of every 100 people. It is seen equally in both genders and can occur at any age. It occurs most frequently in the 20 age group. Although there is a genetic predisposition, it is not seen in every member of the family. Environmental factors may increase it. It is usually distinguished by sharply demarcated pink-red plaques, which are pearl-like white-gray flakes that give the typical appearance of the disease.

How is psoriasis treated?

Psoriasis is a lifelong disease. It can be kept under control with precautions and appropriate treatment. Psoriasis can cause social and psychological problems in the person. Therefore, it is very important to recognize the disease and avoid triggers. Early diagnosis will make it easier to control the disease. If the lesions involve more than 10% of the skin, phototherapy or systemic treatment is definitely required. Being satisfied with only creams will create difficulties in disease control and will not be useful in preventing accompanying diseases.

The aim of the treatment is to avoid aggravating factors (not to irritate, not to rub, etc.), to heal in the shortest time, to provide long-term benefit and to avoid side effects. The same treatment is not used for every patient. Treatment is planned with a specific algorithm. The prevalence of the disease, the patient's age, compliance with treatment, and previous medications are important in choosing treatment. In a limited area, cream-shaped medications and moisturizers are used.

In addition to medical treatment, it is important to eat a healthy diet throughout life in chronic diseases. Apart from this, there is no special diet that is directly linked to the disease. Unnecessary food bans should be avoided. In addition, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and regular exercise are essential.