Psoriasis

Is psoriasis more common in children or adults?

More common in adults than children however may occur at any age

List the 4 main subtypes of psoriasis

1) Chronic plaque psoriasis

2) Guttate psoriasis

3) Pustular psoriasis

4) Erythrodermic psoriasis

What is the commonest subtype of psoriasis?

Chronic plaque psoriasis

List 3 key clinical features of the plaques in chronic plaque psoriasis

1) Erythematous

2) Well-demarcated

3) Overlying coarse silver scale

Is the skin distribution of chronic plaque psoriasis typically symmetrical or asymmetrical?

Symmetrical

List 4 common sites of chronic plaque psoriasis

1) Scalp

2) Elbows (extensor surfaces)

3) Knees

4) Gluteal cleft

List 2 common sites of guttate psoriasis

1) Trunk

2) Proximal extremities

What infection may precede the onset of guttate psoriasis?

Streptococcal pharyngitis

Which subtype of psoriasis is the commonest form in pregnancy?

Pustular psoriasis

Which condition is often associated with nail psoriasis?

Psoriatic arthritis

What is the typical feature of nail psoriasis?

Nail pitting

Which antipsychotic is commonly associated with psoriasis-like adverse skin reaction?

Lithium

Which class of anti-hypertensive is commonly associated with psoriasis-like adverse skin reaction?

Beta-blockers

List 3 antimalarials commonly associated with psoriasis-like adverse skin reaction

1) Chloroquine

2) Hydroxychloroquine

3) Quinidine

How may vitamin D levels be related to psoriasis?

Low vitamin D levels have been associated with psoriasis

Which lymphocyte is involved in the pathophysiology of psoriasis?

T lymphocyte

What is the mainstay of topical treatment of psoriasis?

Topical corticosteroids