Psoriasis Treatment in Indore

Psoriasis – Detailed Description

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterised by rapid skin cell turnover, leading to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin.

It occurs when the immune system sends faulty signals that speed up the life cycle of skin cells. Normally, skin cells grow and shed over a month, but in psoriasis, this process occurs in days, causing the accumulation of dead cells.

Although psoriasis is non-infectious, it has a genetic and immune-mediated aetiology.

Types of Psoriasis

Plaque Psoriasis Most Common

Thick, red patches with silvery scales

Usually on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back

Guttate Psoriasis

Small, teardrop-shaped lesions

Often due to infection such as strep throat

Inverse Psoriasis

Smooth, red patches in the skin folds of the armpits, groin, and under the breasts

Pustular Psoriasis

White pustules on a background of erythema

Can be localised or generalised

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

Rare, serious form

Red, inflamed skin over large areas of the body

May cause fever and other systemic symptoms.

Causes & Risk Factors

1. Autoimmune Dysfunction

Overactive T-cells cause an overproduction of skin cells and accompanying inflammation.

2. Genetic Predisposition

Family history can be a risk factor.

Some genes, such as HLA-C, are associated with psoriasis.

3. Environmental Triggers

Stress

Skin injuries (Koebner phenomenon)

Infections- strep throat, viral infections

Certain drugs-beta blockers, lithium, and antimalarials

4. Lifestyle Factors

Smoking and alcohol can exacerbate psoriasis.

Obesity enhances inflammation.

How Psoriasis Affects the Body

Overactive immune response → T-cell activation → release of inflammatory cytokines

Rapid skin cell growth → thick plaques, scaling, redness

Chronic inflammation may also affect joints: psoriatic arthritis.

It can affect quality of life with respect to itching, pain, and cosmetic appearance

Symptoms

Skin Manifestations

Red, raised patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales

Itchy sensation or burning

Severe cases present with cracks or bleeding.

Dry, flaky skin

Nail Symptoms

Pitting, thickening, and discolouration

Nails may become separated from the nail bed

Joint Symptoms (Psoriatic Arthritis)

Swelling, stiffness, and pain in joints

Morning stiffness, limited mobility

Systemic Manifestations

Fatigue

Emotional distress related to cosmetic appearance

Rare: fever, malaise in severe erythrodermic psoriasis

Diagnosis

Physical Examination - Observation of plaques, nail changes, scalp involvement

Medical History - Family history, precipitants, past exacerbations

Skin Biopsy – To confirm diagnosis in doubtful cases

Blood Tests – Usually not required, but can check for systemic inflammation

Combined Evaluation - If psoriatic arthritis is suspected

Medical Treatment CONVENTIONAL

1. Topical Treatments

Corticosteroids- reduce inflammation

Vitamin D analogues, calcipotriol

Skin moisturisers and emollients for dry skin

2. Phototherapy

UVB or PUVA light therapy

Slows the growth of skin cells and decreases inflammation

3. Systemic Medications

Methotrexate, Cyclosporine, Acitretin

Used in moderate to severe cases

4. Biologic Therapies

Target immune pathways: TNF-alpha inhibitors, IL-17 inhibitors, IL-23 inhibitors

Effective for severe or resistant psoriasis

Lifestyle & Supportive Care

1. Skin Care

Proper moisturizing

Bathe gently; avoid harsh soaps

Avoid scratching to prevent flare-ups

2. Diet

Anti-inflammatory diet: fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids

Limit any form of alcohol, processed foods, and sugar

3. Stress Management

Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness decrease flare-ups related to stress.

4. Exercise

Helps maintain a normal weight and reduces inflammation.

5. Complementary & Integrative Approaches

Homeopathy, Ayurveda, and herbal treatments may support symptom relief, reduce itching, and improve skin health

Must be combined with conventional care in moderate to severe cases

Complications

Psoriatic arthritis, including joint damage and deformity

Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity

Psychological and emotional impact: depression, anxiety. Prognosis: Psoriasis is chronic but manageable. With proper treatment, flare-ups can be controlled. Lifestyle management, stress reduction, and medical therapy improve quality of life. Early treatment of psoriatic arthritis prevents joint damage