title: Psoriasis clinical implications and treatment: a review.
abstract: Psoriasis is a common skin disorder affecting the population worldwide. It is a T-cell mediated autoimmune disorder leading to keratinocyte hyperproliferation. Psoriasis has genetic predisposition that is further aggravated by certain stimulating factors. In spite of significant advances in understanding the pathogenesis of psoriasis, the exact etiology of the disease remains unknown. The clinical manifestations of this disease include various forms that affect different parts of the body. Treatment options vary according to the mode of application or severity of the disease. Earlier treatments have included application of emollients or keratolytic agents to hydrate the skin or shed off the skin. But later treatments have been modified to treat the underlying T-cell proliferation. Hence, topical treatments like coal tar, vitamin D, retinoids, topical calcineurin inhibitors for treating mild psoriasis, systemic treatments including methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin, hydroxyurea, as well as light therapy for severe psoriasis have become more prominent. Current treatment modalities are associated with the risk of serious side effects from prolonged treatment. Combinations of these therapies have provided effective and rapid modalities to suppress the disease and reduce the side effects of treatment. In addition, newer carrier systems for conventional drugs are being developed to improve the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the side effects. Development of biologics and gene therapy have revolutionized the treatment of this skin disease. Although an array of therapies to suppress the psoriatic condition exists, none are curative.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga, Mumbai 400 019, India.
authors.forename: Ashlesha S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Raut
authors.forename: Rashmi H
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Prabhu
authors.forename: Vandana B
authors.initials: VB
authors.lastname: Patravale
mesh_terms: D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000818:Animals; D002626:Chemistry, Pharmaceutical; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000737:chemistry; D004337:Drug Carriers; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D010641:Phenotype; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D012307:Risk Factors; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D004337:Drug Carriers