Living with Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common chronic disease that affects almost 7.5 million Americans.  It can range from mild disease (just a few spots on the scalp, elbows, or knees) to severe disease covering 30-40% of the total body.  It is estimated that 25% of patients with psoriasis have severe disease.  Psoriasis can start at any age but the most common age of onset is in the mid 20's.  The cause of psoriasis is unknown but about 30% of patients with psoriasis have inherited it from one of their relatives.  The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis but a frequent type of psoriasis is called guttate psoriasis that occurs in young people (often under age 20) as a result of a strep infection. Psoriasis is frequently associated with itching and can often affect daily life activities such as walking (especially when it is on the feet), standing or sitting for long periods of time, sleeping, and even one's sexual life.  There is also a strong association  with depression.  About 30% of patients with psoriasis also have a type of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis that is associated with pain and swelling of the feet, fingers, wrists, and back.  It is also associated with stiffness in the morning.  New data suggests that there is a strong association of psoriasis with early heart disease and the metabolic syndrome (abdominal obesity, elevated fasting glucose levels, hypertension, elevated triglycerides, and low levels of LDL cholesterol) in patients with psoriasis.  Psoriasis is not contagious.

Treatment with TS&B
We treat psoriasis aggressively in our practice.  We use phototherapy, topical therapy, laser therapy, oral medications, and new biologic injectable medications to get most patients’ disease under good control.  
Dr. Krell is considered a national expert in psoriasis and has lectured extensively in the United States and internationally on this frustrating disease.  
We currently have several clinical studies testing new therapies for psoriasis. If you are interested in any of our current studies contact the Research Department at (205) 380-6148 or research2@totalskinandbeauty.com.