Psoriasis Research

Scalp psoriasis is a very common non-contagious chronic skin condition that leads to very fast skin cell multiplication that results in red, dry skin patches. These skin scales and dry flakes are believed to be as a result of the fast accumulation of skin cells. As the name would suggest, the condition commonly affects the scalp among other areas such as the knees and elbows. Psoriasis is thought to be a chronic non-curable skin condition that assumes a variable course whereby at times it worsens then improves. It isn’t uncommon to find the condition completely cleared for several years when it goes to remission before coming back in full swing.

Causes of scalp psoriasis

The real cause of scalp psoriasis is yet to be known but there is reason to believe that a combination of factors could be involved. Environmental factors and genetic predisposition are some of the cited causes of scalp psoriasis. It is very common to find the condition among members of the same family lineage. While there has been ongoing research for over 3 decades in search of the main causes, the ‘master trigger’ that triggers this condition is still a mystery to scientists.

Symptoms

Scalp psoriasis manifests itself as severe dandruff with very dry scaly inflamed patches and flakes on the scalp. Not only is this uncomfortable, it is also very embarrassing since the scalp is always in bare view for all to see. In severe cases of the condition, it can lead to hair loss. It can be very tempting to scrape off the thick scab from the scalp, but it only worsens the condition leading to more flaking.

Treatment

Sadly, not only is the scalp the most difficult part of the body to treat because of the hair, the condition is not curable at the moment. There is however treatment options available in the market to help in clearing out the flare-ups. If you fall into the category of the lucky few, the condition can disappear completely on its own and go into remission but for rest of the people, the medications and products out there will do the trick.

A critical step in the treatment of scalp psoriasis is to get rid of existing flakes and scales to allow for the treatment to penetrate effectively. Once you clear the scales, you can then use specially formulated shampoos, like those made of tar, to treat the condition. When removing the scales, it is advisable that they are softened first so they can come off easily without having to scrub off and cause more flaking. They are softened by using products that contain lactic or salicylic acids. You can also apply oils or creams on the scales when the affected areas are damp.

Psoriasis vulgaris is the most common variety of this skin condition, and is usually known as Plaque Psoriasis. Over 80% of the cases of psoriasis are reported to be psoriasis vulgaris.

The name Psoriasis Vulgaris refers to common psoriasis, where Vulgaris means “common”. The condition is characterized by patches appearing all over the skin in the form of red scales falling off. The worst affected areas are the elbows, knees, nails, trunk and scalp. The plaque is not just the only sign of psoriasis vulgaris; it is covered by a flaky white skin buildup, usually silvery in color, and is composed of some dead cells of the skin. The scale often become loose and tends to shed constantly. The condition is itchy with cracks forming from time to time. Sometimes it can as well be very painful.

Psoriasis vulgaris usually precipitates in the areas where the skin has experienced some trauma before; this is also known as isomorphic response. The condition is usually coin sized with well-defined red scaly plaques on different parts of the body.

This typical type of psoriasis usually remains the same; it is stable in nature and quite different from Guttate variety. However, chances are that chronic forms of psoriasis vulgaris might show certain signs of fluctuating activities. The skin tends to become reddish in color and new lesions might develop as well. Local topical agents might not work; they might only worsen the condition.

There are various factors that worsen the condition even further. If corticosteroids are withdrawn suddenly, or any steroid based treatments are used regularly, it can lead to aggravated forms of psoriasis vulgaris.

Although psoriasis can be diagnosed easily by looking at the skin condition, there are times when it becomes increasingly tough to differentiate between dermatitis and psoriasis vulgaris. Usually a doctor needs to look into the condition properly and differentiate, in order to come to a conclusion.

Managing psoriasis can be tougher than you actually think it is. Based on various factors, such as the age of the individual suffering from the condition, the particular stage of the condition, its location, the severity of the disease, the lifestyle of the individual and his response to previous treatments and therapies will determine the next course of action. Therefore, it must be understood that every patient has to go through a tailored management process for treating psoriasis.

There are different topical treatments, systemic treatments, phototherapy and lifestyle management techniques that help in stabilizing the condition. Taking proper care and helping oneself to cope up with the condition can be of great help.