PSORIASIS (PSORIASIS)
Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious skin condition that occurs in flare-ups and is caused by an overactive immune response. It leads to reddened, thickened, and scaly patches of skin and can also affect the nails or joints. Although psoriasis is not curable, highly effective treatments are now available that significantly improve the skin and control flare-ups in the long term.
At the Decamed Skin and Laser Center, we offer a wide range of modern treatment options – from proven local treatments to innovative biologics.
Table of Contents
- What is psoriasis?
- Causes & Triggers
- Symptoms & Forms of Psoriasis
- Psoriasis of nails and joints
- Diagnostics at the dermatologist
- Treatment options
- Light therapy (UVB 311 nm)
- Everyday Life & Skincare
- FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which skin cells regenerate much faster than normal. This results in:
- thickened plaques
- Redness
- silvery scales
- Itching or burning
The following are frequently affected:
- scalp
- elbow
- Knee
- Sacrum
- Hands & Feet
The disease progresses in waves: periods of calm alternate with acute flare-ups.
2. Causes & Triggers
2. Causes & Triggers
Psoriasis is caused by a combination of the following factors:
- Genetic predisposition
- Often occurs in families.
- Misguided immune response
- The immune system triggers excessive skin cell production.
Trigger factors
- Infections
- stress
- mechanical friction (Koebner phenomenon)
- Alcohol & Nicotine
- certain medications
- hormonal fluctuations
3. Symptoms & Forms of Psoriasis
3. Symptoms & Forms of Psoriasis
Psoriasis manifests itself differently depending on the form:
Psoriasis vulgaris (plaque psoriasis)
- most common form
- red, sharply defined plaques
- silvery scales
guttate psoriasis
- small, teardrop-shaped clusters
- often after infections
Pustular psoriasis
- with pustules, mostly on hands/feet
inverse psoriasis
- in skin folds (armpits, groin)
- Fewer flakes, more redness
4. Psoriasis of nails & joints
4. Psoriasis of nails & joints
Nail psoriasis
- Dots
- yellowish discoloration
- thickened nails
- Detachment of the nail plate
Psoriatic arthritis
In approximately 20–30% of patients:
- Joint pain
- stiffness
- Swelling
INFOBOX:
Early diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis prevents permanent joint damage.
5. Diagnostics at the dermatologist
5. Diagnostics at the dermatologist
Clinical examination
Typical plaques usually allow for a clear diagnosis.
Medical history
Identifying triggers and family stress.
If necessary: biopsy
To differentiate between eczema and fungal infections.
Joint check
Important for the early detection of psoriatic arthritis.
6. Treatment options
6. Treatment options
Depending on the severity, various forms of therapy are available:
1. Local therapy (creams & ointments)
- Cortisone preparations
- Vitamin D analogues
- Combination therapies
- Care creams to thin the plaques
2. Systemic Therapy
In cases of moderate to severe illness:
- Methotrexate
- Cyclosporine
- Retinoids
- PDE4 inhibitors
3. Biologics – modern immunotherapy
Biologics specifically block individual inflammatory pathways (e.g., IL-17, IL-23, TNF).
Advantages:
- very effective
- rapid improvement
- long-term thrust control
- Suitable for skin, nail and joint involvement
INFOBOX :
Biologics enable many patients to have virtually symptom-free skin.
7. Light therapy (UVB 311 nm)
7. Light therapy (UVB 311 nm)
- reduces inflammation
- slows down cell regeneration
- especially effective on large plaques
- Well tolerated under medical supervision
It is often combined with creams to increase effectiveness.
8. Daily Life & Skincare
8. Daily Life & Skincare
DOS
✔ replenishing care
✔ lukewarm shower
✔ Stress management
✔ Gentle removal of dandruff
✔ Consistent sun protection
Don'ts
✘ Scratching
✘ aggressive soaps
✘ Cigarettes & Alcohol
✘ Injurious clothing (friction intensifies plaques)
9. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
9. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Is psoriasis contagious?
No.
Is psoriasis curable?
No, but it is very treatable.
Does sunshine help?
Yes, in controlled amounts; avoid unprotected UV exposure.
When do I need biologics?
If local therapies or tablets are insufficient, or if psoriatic arthritis is present.
How quickly does a therapy take effect?
Depending on the method: weeks to a few months.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Psoriasis is a chronic condition that can now be very successfully controlled with targeted therapies. Modern medications such as biologics, combined with individually tailored skincare and light therapy, enable many patients to achieve an almost clear complexion and a significant improvement in their quality of life.