Psoriasis
Psoriasis is one of the most common skin disorders that we see at Forefront Dermatology, formerly Asarch Dermatology. Psoriasis can affect a person’s quality of life and treatment is often sought both for the physical symptoms and psychological effects.
What is Psoriasis?
This chronic disease develops when a patient’s new skin cells form in days rather than weeks. This is due to the immune system sending faulty signals that tell skin cells to grow too quickly. Instead of shedding these excess skin cells, the skin cells pile up on the surface of the skin, causing patches of psoriasis to appear.
Causes of psoriasis
What causes psoriasis is an immune system disorder that causes White blood cells called T cells to attack healthy skin cells. When this happens, the body begins to produce more healthy skin cells, which begin to build up and form on the surface of the skin. This creates severe patches and scaling throughout the skin, which can worsen in multiple ways. Some of these include infections, injuries, smoking and stress, and alcohol. another common cause of psoriasis can be medications you are taking. Consult your doctor if this begins to happen.
What Are the Symptoms?
There are several types of psoriasis ranging from mild with no symptoms other than visible ones, to severe pain, itching, soreness, and burning.
Patient testimonials
“I have been seeing Dr Asarch for over 30 years. I love coming in for treatments and the people are very professional and warm.”
“Dr. Asarch is without doubt one of the most outstanding dermatologists in the Rocky Mountain area, if not the country. His medical knowledge and technical expertise are of the highest caliber. I refer my patients, family and friends to him.”
Types of Psoriasis
There are several types of psoriasis and some people will get more than one. Others will have a specific type of psoriasis.
- Plaque (also called psoriasis vulgaris)- Characterized by raised, reddish patches on the skin called plaque
- Guttate- Appears as small, red spots (usually on the trunk, arms, and legs but can appear on the scalp, face, and ears).
- Inverse (also called flexural psoriasis or intertriginous psoriasis)- Smooth, red patches of skin that show up where skin touches skin and look raw.
- Pustular- Red skin with puss filled bumps on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
- Erythrodermic (also called exfoliative psoriasis).-Skin looks like it is burnt with intense itching and pain.
Who Gets Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is not contagious and you cannot get psoriasis from touching someone who has it. A person must inherit the genes that cause this skin concern.
Your dermatologist will evaluate which type or types of psoriasis you have to determine treatment options.
How is Psoriasis Treated
A treatment plan needs to be customized by the severity of your psoriasis and can range from topical creams for mild to moderate problems to injected medication for more severe or systemic conditions. At the Forefront Dermatology, formerly Asarch Dermatology, we are able to treat some forms of psoriasis with the Pharos Excimer Laser.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you are considering psoriasis treatment, please contact Forefront Dermatology, formerly Asarch Dermatology for Dermatology, Laser, & Mohs Surgery. Call us at 303-761-7797 to schedule a consultation. Our practice serves Englewood, Lakewood, Castle Rock, and surrounding areas in Colorado.
