Psoriasis
Want to control your psoriasis?
Our skin care professionals are well-trained to help you find the right treatment plan for your psoriasis.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis (pronounced sore-EYE-uh-sis) is a disease in which the skin becomes inflamed with brick-red patches and thick scales. There are different types of psoriasis; the most common is called plaque (pronounced plack) psoriasis. For various reasons, the immune system is stimulated to “click on” and the inflammatory process of redness and scaling skin begins. The rash can be seen anywhere on the body but is most often seen on the elbows, knees, scalp and back.
There is a hereditary factor involved, which suggests that if a relative has psoriasis, you have a slightly higher chance than the average population to get it. Psoriasis most often develops later in life, although people of any age may have it. It is rare to see the elderly or the very young develop psoriasis.
Specialists in Psoriasis.
Guttate psoriasis
Hand psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis
How do you treat psoriasis?
The skin care professionals at Dermatology Specialists of Kansas City are experienced in treating all types of psoriasis and helping people of any age. We know that every person’s psoriasis is different. When developing a treatment plan, we consider factors such as age, lifestyle, ethnicity, psychological factors, the amount and type of psoriasis, symptoms, cost of medications and their potential risks, to name a few. Our providers individualize treatment to best fit the patient’s needs.
There are several treatment options we can use. If a patient has a limited amount of psoriasis then creams or ointments may do the trick. Some of these ‘’topical” medications may contain steroids to address the inflammation. Dr. Rupp and his Physician Assistants may suggest other products, such as special moisturizers or shampoos, that are available without a prescription.
Although dermatologists advise patients to stay out of the sun's harmful rays, certain rays can be used in controlled office settings to improve psoriasis. Dermatology Specialists of KC provides Narrow Band UVB, which ensures that only the psoriasis area is being exposed to the UVB rays and not the entire body.
Sometimes your provider will prescribe a pill to control your psoriasis. Other times, Dr. Rupp and his Physician Assistants may recommend periodic injections. These injections are called “biologics.” The providers at Dermatology Specialists have vast experience and knowledge with biologics and can select the one that fits their patients’ needs.
Rest assured that we will sit down with you to discuss which treatment is right for you.
