Hello everyone! I would like to go more into the different therapies of Psoriasis because we discussed as a group that there could be a lot of options.
UVB for psoriasis
UV therapy is one of the first line therapies available for chronic plaque psoriasis, if available. The type of light that is used to treat psoriasis is UVB phototherapy. There are different types of UVB therapy, narrow-band, broad-band, and laser UVB. Narrow-band phototherapy is the most common light therapy and limits wavelengths used. Broad-band UVB therapy is the oldest form of light therapy and has a wider wavelength. Excimer Laser UVB lastly is for targeting smaller areas. Healthcare professionals use this type of therapy when the psoriasis is affecting less than 5 percent of the body. Some benefits to narrow-band UVB is that the light release a smaller range, making it able to clear psoriasis faster and give longer remissions. This treatment might also be quicker than the other types of UVB treatments. It is estimated that about 75% of people using UVB therapy will develop clear skin.
https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/treatments/phototherapy#uvb
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323593#types-of-light-therapy
Psoriasis, a persistent autoimmune skin disorder marked by the excessive growth of skin cells, manifests as thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. Its origins remain somewhat elusive, likely stemming from a blend of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Triggers such as stress, infections, skin injury, and certain medications can exacerbate symptoms.
Various psoriasis types exist, each presenting distinct features and necessitating tailored treatments. The primary goal of treatment is symptom alleviation, inflammation reduction, and inhibition of abnormal skin cell growth. Although a permanent cure is yet to be found, diverse treatment modalities aim to effectively manage the condition.
Initial treatment often involves topical medications like corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and coal tar preparations, directly applied to affected areas to mitigate inflammation and scaling. Phototherapy, or light therapy, under medical supervision, employs ultraviolet light exposure to slow skin cell proliferation and inflammation, either alone or in combination with other treatments.
For more severe cases resistant to conventional therapies, systemic medications are prescribed, targeting the underlying immune dysfunction. These may include methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin, or biologic agents like TNF-alpha inhibitors, IL-17 inhibitors, and IL-23 inhibitors. Due to potential side effects and immune system implications, close monitoring is necessary.
Lifestyle modifications complement medical interventions. Strategies such as stress reduction, avoidance of triggers like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet, managing weight, and regular exercise contribute to overall skin health and immune function.
Living with psoriasis poses physical and emotional challenges. Support groups, counseling, and education provide valuable resources. Collaborating closely with healthcare professionals ensures the development of personalized treatment plans, addressing individual needs and concerns.
In summary, psoriasis presents as a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by rapid skin cell growth. While a permanent cure remains elusive, diverse treatment options aim to manage symptoms effectively. By implementing comprehensive approaches, individuals can navigate psoriasis, minimizing its impact on their daily lives.