Biologics for Psoriasis

Tag Archives: Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes raised, red, scaly patches (with or without silver-colored scale) to appear on the skin. Typically found on the scalp, elbows, and knees, it is usually treated with topical creams, corticosteroids, and retinoids. However, for patients who have tried these options to no avail, or have severe symptoms, biologics may be considered.

Biologics are medications that specifically target parts of the immune system that are responsible for the overgrowth of skin cells relating to psoriasis. Administered at our office by injection, they can be a very effective treatment option for patients.

Lisa S. Ball, NP Psoriasis Patient Results

Lisa S. Ball, NP psoriasis patient after biologic treatment.

The following are biologics that we use for patients with psoriasis:

• Cimzia
• Cosentyx
• Humira
• Siliq
• Skyrizi
• Taltz
• Tremfya

It is important to remember that joint pain can sometimes be related to psoriasis. This is called psoriatic arthritis. Psoriasis should be managed as it can be linked to heart disease, diabetes, cancers, as well as other autoimmune diseases. Contact our office today, to see if biologics may be right for you.

Sources: National Psoriasis Foundation, Jonathan G. Turowski, AGPCNP-BC

Back in 2011, reality star Kim Kardashian announced that she suffers from psoriasis. Since that time, she has been influential in raising awareness about the condition. Recently, she shared a shocking photo on her Instagram that brought attention back to it.

Kim Kardashian Psoriasis Instagram

Kim Kardashian showing signs of psoriasis flare-up from recent Instagram post. Source: Kim Kardashian/Instagram

As you can see, the photo shows textbook psoriasis flareups all over her face. A lot of people found the photo quite shocking and can’t believe how she is regularly able to conceal it.

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that affects more than 8 million Americans. Typically developing between the ages of 15-25, symptoms consist of skin redness and irritation with silver-colored scales. Usually occurring on the scalp, face, hands, elbows, knees, and feet, it is believed to occur when the body’s immune system mistakes healthy cells for dangerous or harmful substances.

A common misconception is that psoriasis is contagious, this is not the case. Some things that can contribute to worsening the condition though include too much exposure to sunlight, consumption of alcohol, and even stress. It can be treated in many different ways, with the most common options being topical ointments or creams, lotions, and shampoos.

Psoriasis Patient

Lisa S. Ball, NP psoriasis patient after treatment.

Taking care of your skin by regularly moisturizing and cleaning the affected area can also help in maintaining and reducing flare-ups. Although there is no way to prevent psoriasis, there are many ways to manage and treat the condition.

 

Source: National Psoriasis Foundation

Topical corticosteroids (steroids) are a common treatment option for a variety of dermatological conditions. The reason is that they promote anti-inflammatory responses by suppressing the immune system’s response. Typically prescribed for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, eczema, and rashes, if prescribed appropriately they can yield very effective results.

This effectiveness however can lead to patients developing a dependency on them. Initially, after stopping the topical steroid, the condition may come back with a vengeance. So quite often, people will continue to apply the steroid even after the condition clears, and in doing so, severe side effects can arise.  Examples include, atrophy of the skin (the consistency in the area of skin where the cream was used becomes comparable to saran wrap) or striae (thick red lines that look like stretch marks). A way to avoid potential addiction is through the use of a stagger program. This can be done by using the topical steroid twice a day for two weeks, then taking one week off.

Although topical steroids are an effective option, if not administered properly it can lead to serious issues.

Psoriasis is a relatively common condition that typically affects the skin and joints. Occurring on the scalp, elbows, knees, and more uncommonly hands and feet, it can lead to painful complications such as arthritis and severe itching. Although there is currently no way to prevent psoriasis, there are a variety of treatment options that can effectively control the condition.

Psoriasis_Treatment

Some treatment options for psoriasis include topical agents, phototherapy, and systemic agents. Typically used for mild cases, topical agents consist of cortisone creams, moisturizers, skin lotions, ointments, and dandruff shampoos. Then for moderate cases, phototherapy or light therapy is utilized. This method of treatment involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light which in turn suppresses the immune system and reduces the inflammatory response. Exposure must be monitored because too much can lead to burning of the skin, similar to a sun burn. When psoriasis is resistant to these other types of treatment or is considered severe, it is then treated with systemic agents. Systemic agents are prescription medications that are administered orally or through injection.

While all these treatments listed above prove to be beneficial, some can potentially lead to negative side effects. Schedule an appointment with our office today for appropriate diagnosis and treatment of psoriasis.