An Overview of Treatment Options for Psoriasis

Because psoriasis is a chronic condition, there is no cure. However, there are a number of treatments available to help sufferers obtain relief of symptoms. The aim of psoriasis treatment is two fold, to interrupt the overgrowth of skin cells that cause the thick scaly skin and to remove the scales and soften the skin.

When the skin overgrowth cell cycle is arrested, the formation of plaque and inflammation is then decreased. Providing a more receptive surface for softening and removing the remaining plaque. The treatments that are intended to better the lifestyle of the sufferer can be divided into three categories; topical medications, oral medications and light therapy.

Psoriasis treatment depends directly on the severity and resistance of each individual case. For those that suffer from a mild to moderate form of psoriasis, topical applications of various types of medication may be the answer. Common topical medications include corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, retinoids and Anthralin to list a few.

Corticosteroids have the ability to suppress the immune system and in turn slow down the rate of cell production leading to a decreased amount of inflammation and itching. Synthetic Vitamin D also slows the production of skin cells. Retinoids and Anthralin both work directly on DNA normalizing its activity. One of the oldest forms of topical treatment, still in use today is coal tar. Its exact method of how it works is unclear however it does decrease inflammation, itching and scale formation.

Another form of treatment is phototherapy. This can be used alone or in combination with various medications depending on the severity of the disorder. The light source can be natural sunlight or artificial light contingent on the desired psoriasis treatment. Exposure to UV light (natural or artificial) works to kill the 'T' cells in the skin. This exercise slows cell growth, decreases scaling, and inflammation.

However, careful coordination is necessary with the prescribing physician because exorbitant amounts of light can worsen symptoms. In addition, photochemotherapy and laser light can also be used to help control psoriasis. Those that are prescribed photochemotherapy are required to take an oral medication that allows the light to penetrate deeper into the skin. Because of the potential risks involved, this treatment is reserved for extreme cases of psoriasis.

Many times, it is necessary to employ the use of oral or injectable medications especially for severe or resistant cases of psoriasis. Due to the potential side effects of many of these medications, they are reserved as a last resort. The desired goal of psoriasis treatment is to limit the amount of cell turnover in the most effective way.

By limiting or eliminating cell turnover, the amount of scaling, inflammation and itching is controlled offering the sufferer relief of symptoms. However, the physician will also want to balance the benefit of slowed cell growth with the least amount of side effects.

Moreover, due to the unpredictability of the course of this disease, providing care and treatment for individuals with psoriasis requires patience and diligence on the part of both physician and patient.