Psoriasis Research

Erythrodermic psoriasis is a dreaded form of psoriasis that tends to spread rapidly. It is that typical type of psoriasis that is usually triggered by previous psoriasis attacks. It often causes serious metabolic disorders and might result in emergency situations.

Erythrodermic psoriasis is characterized by scaling skin and inflammation. It is a generalized form of inflammatory psoriasis that is caused by loss of fluid and protein from the body through excessive scaling of the skin.

It is one of the most severe forms of psoriasis, and more than 25% of the cases are reported to be that of Erythrodermic psoriasis. It is usually common in people having plaque psoriasis that is worsening progressively.

Erythrodermic psoriasis precipitates with the abrupt withdrawal of potent topical agents and steroids or systemic corticosteroids, or for that matter any other medications. However, Erythrodermic psoriasis is not only caused due to psoriasis; there are various other causes of this complication  as well, such as atopic dermatitis, lymphoma, drug reactions, dermatitis, contact allergic dermatitis and other types of skin problems. 50% of the cases of Erythrodermic psoriasis have no reasons at all.

The signs and symptoms of Erythrodermic psoriasis are quite similar to any other type of psoriasis. However, there are certain exceptions. The characteristics of this type of psoriasis is widespread, starting of with redness, thickening of skin and scaling. However, the scales aren’t as thick as it happens in case of plaque psoriaisis. Reddening of the skin, inflammation, scaling and severe pain and itching are some of the common symptom of the condition. The color of the skin becomes red and tremors also occur due to fluctuating temperature.

Erythrodermic psoriasis is one such condition that affects the overall skin of the body. It often leads to infections, dehydration, heart failure, hypothermia or low body temperature and can as well lead to capillary leak syndrome. It also causes odema and death in some worst cases.

Treatment of Erythrodermic psoriasis involves a wide variety of options. Cooling wet dressings, bland emollient, bed rest, low dosage of ciclosporin, acitretin and Methotrexate and antibiotics are some of the commonly available options.

When the condition becomes severe, hospitalization is required for support and care. With the use of intravenous fluids and various temperature regulation techniques, the condition often improves.

However, this condition cannot be treated with oral corticosteroids because there are certain risks associated with the same, withdrawing these medications can lead to extreme conditions.

Using the prescribed medicines will help in preventing the erythrodermic psoriasis condition from spreading any further also, it might reduce the chances of worsening also, thereby preventing some of the major health complications.