Psoriasis is a chronic, relapsing disorder of epidermal growth, in which keratinocytes proliferate too rapidly. This leads to raised, bright-red plaques covered with whitish scales in the affected areas. It is a common skin disease that can occur at any age and may involve almost any body site, including the nails. Diagnosis is usually clinical, though a skin biopsy may be required in selected cases to distinguish psoriasis from other eczematous conditions and to guide therapy.
Several factors can trigger or worsen psoriasis in predisposed individuals: traumatic events (accidents, major surgery), streptococcal infections (especially in guttate psoriasis), use or withdrawal of systemic corticosteroids, significant psychological stress, certain drugs (such as beta-blockers, lithium, gold salts, synthetic antimalarials) and metabolic syndrome (diabetes, cardiovascular disease and related conditions).
Psoriasis can present in different clinical forms, including plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, pustular psoriasis and psoriatic nail disease. Typical sites include the scalp, elbows, knees, sacral area and periumbilical region. The disease follows a chronic course, with flares and possible spontaneous remissions, sometimes long-lasting. While it does not usually compromise overall physical health directly, it can have a major impact on psychological wellbeing and quality of life.
Treatment options
At MAVIT, treatment is tailored to the patient’s clinical form, extent and severity:
• Topical therapies (emollients, keratolytics, topical corticosteroids, vitamin D derivatives, etc.)
• Targeted supplements, for example Omega 3 and Omega 6, when appropriate
• Conventional systemic therapies (retinoids, cyclosporine, methotrexate) for more severe forms
• Biologic therapies, prescribed in dedicated centres after clinical assessment in moderate-to-severe psoriasis
• Phototherapy according to controlled protocols
Patients are strongly advised not to self-medicate with non-specific drugs and to follow the treatment plan recommended by their dermatologist.
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