Psoriasis Specialist
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Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton
Dermatology located in Brighton, MA, Mashpee, MA & Needham, MA
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, as many as 7.5 million Americans are affected by psoriasis. At Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton, Mark Amster, MD, and the skilled dermatology team offer comprehensive care for psoriasis 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 call the offices in Needham, Mashpee, and Brighton, Massachusetts, today to get started on your individualized treatment path.
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 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 leads 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 with your dermatology expert at Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton.
A biopsy can also be helpful and involves taking a small sample of skin cells to examine under a microscope. This process allows your provider to determine which type of psoriasis you have, which is helpful in creating your treatment plan.
How is psoriasis treated?
Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton offers comprehensive care to help you manage psoriasis. Your provider evaluates how severe your symptoms are and customizes your treatment plan to relieve your symptoms.
For mild to moderate psoriasis that covers up to 10% of your body, they might prescribe medications you apply directly to your skin.
If you have psoriasis that covers more than 10% of your body, you might need more aggressive treatments like:
- Prescription topical creams
- Light therapy
- Injectable biologics
- Oral medications
Your provider can also recommend products that keep your skin moisturized and protected from long-term damage.
If you’re ready to find relief from the scaly, red, or swollen skin brought on by psoriasis, schedule a consultation at Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton today, either online or by phone.
