Curbing the psoriasis cascade. Therapies to minimize flares and frustration.
Psoriasis, a T-cell-mediated disorder, affects 1% to 3% of the world's population. The characteristic lesions occur in many different forms, can cause significant discomfort and social distress, and in some instances, lead to dehydration and metabolic derangement. A chronic, unpredictable course and the necessity of periodically switching drugs or classes of drugs make psoriasis frustrating to treat. However, topical and systemic drug therapies and phototherapy can help minimize the exacerbations and prolong remissions. In this article, Dr Shenenberger outlines treatment approaches and discusses research into the use of immunomodulatory agents.
Shenenberger
Donald W
DW
National Capital Consortium Dermatology Residency Program, National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA. dwshenenberger@bethesda.med.navy.mil
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005639:Frustration; D006801:Humans; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011701:PUVA Therapy / Q000379:methods; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D011788:Quality of Life
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D007155:Immunologic Factors; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents