What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by scaly pink raised portions of skin. Despite it being a relatively common condition, with over 7 million individuals in the US affected, patients commonly report that they feel their condition is misunderstood and/or judged by the general population. Psoriasis commonly affects areas skin over knees, elbows, and scalp but can affect anywhere on the body including armpits, groin area, nails, hands and feet. It can be associated with a specific form of joint aches known as psoriatic arthritis, and there is an increased incidence of other medical conditions such as heart disease and the metabolic syndrome in patients with this condition.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment options include topical treatments such as topical steroids, as well as systemic treatments, including oral treatments as well as injectable medications (biologics). In addition, light treatment as well as specialized laser treatment can be utilized in the treatment of psoriasis. Connecticut Skin Institute also has the XTRAC laser available for in office treatments. Xtrac works exceptionally well for scalp psoriasis. Because of the shieldng effect of hair, traditional UVB lamp therapy is not very effective against scalp psoriasis. However, studies have reported success in treating it with Xtrac 308 nm excimer laser which generates a targeted beam of UVB light.
Why the Connecticut Skin Institute?
At Connecticut Skin Institute, we understand the importance of tailoring treatment based on the individual patient- his/her extent of involvement, prior medical history, locations involved, presence or absence of psoriatic arthritis, and the degree to which quality of life is impacted by the patient’s psoriasis. Dr Shimrat Notik is a board certified dermatologist with extensive experience in managing psoriasis ranging from moderate to severe psoriasis. She has participated in numerous research studies in the treatment of psoriasis and remains up to date on cutting edge treatment breakthroughs.