Aug 01, 2011
Reality star Kim Kardashian recently developed skin psoriasis, a condition that is caused by a rapid production of skin cells. This excessive skin cells accumulate and cause dry, scaly patches. The media darling Kim, might have turned skin-care advocate and is making no bones about the non-contagious skin condition.
Dr Maya Vedamurthy, Consultant Dermatologist, Apollo Hospitals, says, “Psoriasis is a genetic disease which is aggravated by winter. Hot weather is generally supposed to improve psoriasis probably due to the beneficial effects of sun. However there are a small subset of patients who have worsening of their disease in summer too.”
In most cases, those who suffer from skin conditions, think of topical treatments. Dr Vedamurthy says, “Psoriasis is a systemic disease and therefore an oral medicine is more effective most of the time. However when the disease is localised and involves less than ten per cent of body surface topical treatments alone are useful.” She adds, “Diet plays a major role in disease activity. Obesity and alcohol have adverse effects on the disease. Food rich in omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants are good and must be included in the diet.”
While itchy skin and patches can be passed off as dry skin and coaxed with moisturiser, Dr Sunita More, cosmetologist at American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, says, “Typically, the symptoms are that the patch looks red, scaly, dry and has a roughened feel. Common areas are elbows, knees and scalp.” She cautions, “It has been noticed that some patients can also have psoriasis in other areas of the skin. They can be under arms, the navel, buttocks, palms of the hand and sole of the foot too.” Dr Maya adds, “Dandruff on the scalp is a symptom of psoriasis on the scalp.”
Drawing on her experience, Dr More, says, “The mainstay of treatment is use of topical steroid skin creams to suppress the redness and itchy sensation. Creams made of Vitamin D analogue and moisturising creams containing urea to soften the dry skin are also good. Some creams that can modify local immunity [tacrolimus] are also prescribed.” She adds, “I would also recommend UV light therapy alongside medicines. It makes the patches look less obvious.” So, for how long must one take these strong steroid based creams or treatment? Dr More, says, “Various medicines are given in combination in a cyclical manner every six to 24 months, so that the same medicines are not taken continuously and the side-effects of medication are avoided.”
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