What is plaque
psoriasis?
Plaque psoriasis is an
autoimmune disease
that affects over
7 million
people in the US
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, we do know that
it begins with an overactive immune system
Normally, skin cells grow
and shed over the
course of about a month.
With plaque psoriasis,
the immune system
speeds this process up
so skin cells grow in just
3 to 4 days.
Instead of shedding,
these extra cells build
up on the surface of the
skin, creating plaques.
Common symptoms
Plaques are thick, raised patches of skin that can itch, hurt, or sometimes crack and bleed. While these symptoms are common, plaque psoriasis can still look different for everyone.
Itching
Pain
Burning
Stinging
Skin tightness
How is plaque psoriasis treated?
There are several types of treatments your doctor may prescribe you to treat your plaque psoriasis.
The best option for you depends on your symptoms and what you hope to achieve with treatment.
Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light. This light penetrates the skin and helps slow the growth of affected skin cells.
Creams, lotions, gels, and ointments are often the first treatment used for plaque psoriasis. They’re applied directly to the skin to help calm symptoms.
Oral treatments work throughout the body. They help manage inflammation and improve skin symptoms.
Biologics target specific parts of the immune system to help block cells and proteins involved in plaque psoriasis.
Have you been on treatment but still have itchy or painful plaques?
Talk to your doctor about taking the next step in your psoriasis treatment.
