Psoriasis

Restoring your well-being

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, as many as 7.5 million Americans are affected by psoriasis. For those living in and around Newport Beach, California, Dr. Joseph Sedrak of California Dermatology Physicians offers comprehensive care for this and many other skin conditions. There’s no need to live with the discomfort and unsightly appearance of psoriasis when there are safe and effective treatments available. Schedule an appointment online or by phone today to get started on your individualized treatment path.

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Psoriasis Q & A

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated condition that’s incredibly common. Data compiled by the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations shows that almost 3% of the global population has a form of psoriasis.

There are several types of psoriasis, but plaque psoriasis is the most common, accounting for nearly 80% of all cases. Additional forms of psoriasis include:

• Guttate psoriasis

• Inverse psoriasis

• Pustular psoriasis

• Erythrodermic psoriasis
  
  

Around 30% of psoriasis sufferers will eventually develop psoriatic arthritis, which can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.

What causes psoriasis?

Researchers are uncertain of the exact cause of psoriasis. What is known is that a combination of genetic and immune system factors lead to the condition.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune problem in which your body mistakenly attacks its own skin cells. Your body responds with a natural healing process, increasing cellular turnover and creating new cells. As the additional cells pile up, they accumulate on your skin’s surface, creating scaly plaques and areas of red, inflamed skin.

How is psoriasis diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive skin examination performed by Dr. Sedrak. A biopsy can also be helpful and involves taking a small sample of skin cells to examine under a microscope. This process allows Dr. Sedrak to determine which type of psoriasis you have, which is helpful in creating your treatment plan.

How is psoriasis treated?

Your treatment path depends on your specific needs. Topical treatments may help address mild to moderate psoriasis. These creams and ointments might include:

• Corticosteroids

• Retinoids

• Vitamin D

• Salicylic acid

• Anthralin
  
  

Light therapy can be a good treatment option. Concentrated UVB light or natural light can slow rapid cell growth and reduce symptoms of psoriasis, especially when combined with other treatments.

Oral or injected medications can be helpful in controlling moderate psoriasis that hasn’t responded well to other treatments. These medications carry a risk of serious side effects, and Dr. Sedrak will monitor your health closely during treatment.  

If you’re ready to find relief from the scaly, red, or swollen skin brought on by psoriasis, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sedrak today, either online or by phone.