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Giornale Italiano di Dermatologia e Venereologia 2006 February;141(1):55-62

Copyright © 2006 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

Top 10 psoriasis treatment tips

Feldman S. R.

Center for Dermatology Research Departments of Dermatology, Pathology and Public Health Sciences Wake Forest University School of Medicine Winston-Salem, NC, USA

Psoriasis is a common complex disease that has many different manifestations. The many treatments for psoriasis magnify the complexity of managing the disease. An overall structure can help guide appropriate, comprehensive psoriasis treatment. Psychosocial issues need to be addressed for all patients with psoriasis. Then, for treatment purposes, most psoriasis patients can be classified as having either localized disease which is amenable to topical treatment or more generalized disease that requires photo or systemic treatment. The key to success in topical psoriasis treatment is good compliance. Phototherapy - with or without an oral retinoid - is the first line option for patients with extensive psoriasis. If that is not effective, the patient should be counseled about their systemic treatment options and should be involved in the decision of what is the most appropriate treatment. Support groups, such as the National Psoriasis Foundation, are helpful for both managing patients' psychosocial issues and educating them about their treatment options.