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Psoriasis: current perspectives with an emphasis on treatment
1Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine 92697, USA.
The American Journal of Medicine
|January 7, 2000
Summary
Psoriasis treatment requires an individualized approach, starting with topical therapies like corticosteroids. If ineffective, phototherapy or systemic medications may be necessary, often requiring specialist dermatological care.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with diverse clinical presentations.
- Treatment selection depends on disease severity, patient factors, and side effect profiles.
- Individualized therapeutic strategies are essential for effective psoriasis management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline a stepwise approach to psoriasis treatment.
- To highlight the importance of tailoring therapy to individual patient needs.
- To guide clinicians in selecting appropriate treatments based on disease characteristics and response.
Main Methods:
- Review of current therapeutic options for psoriasis.
- Categorization of treatments into topical, phototherapy, and systemic agents.
- Consideration of patient-specific factors in treatment selection.
Main Results:
- First-line treatments include topical corticosteroids, calcipotriene, and tazarotene.
- Phototherapy (UVB) and photochemotherapy (PUVA) are second-line options.
- Systemic therapies like methotrexate, acitretin, and cyclosporine are reserved for refractory cases.
Conclusions:
- A tiered treatment approach, from topical to systemic therapies, is recommended for psoriasis.
- Referral to a dermatologist is crucial when topical treatments fail or for complex cases.
- Optimizing psoriasis management involves balancing efficacy with minimizing treatment-related side effects.