Psoriasis; guttate
Alternative names:
guttate psoriasis
Treatment:
Treatment is focused on control of the symptoms and prevention of secondary infections. It varies with the extent and severity of the disorder.
Severe or resistant cases, or cases involving large areas of the body, may require intensive treatment. Psoriasis lesions that cover all or most of the body are an emergency symptom that require hospitalization. The disorder may be acutely painful. The body loses vast quantities of fluid, and is susceptible to severe secondary infections that can become systemic (involving internal organs) and can progress to septic shock and death. Treatment includes analgesics, sedation, intravenous fluids, and antibiotics.
Mild cases are usually treated at home. Topical medications include: - prescription or nonprescription dandruff shampoos
- shampoos or lotions that contain coal tar
- cortisone or other corticosteroids
- lubricants
- antifungal medications
- antibiotics
- phenol
- sodium chloride
- other ingredients
Oral or injected immunosuppressive medications ( such as corticosteroids or methotrexate) may be used but only in very severe cases. Other medications may include retinoids or cyclosporine.
Other treatments may include exposure to sunlight or phototherapy. The skin is sensitized by applying coal tar ointment or by taking oral psoralens (a medication that makes the skin sensitive to light). The person is then exposed to ultraviolet light.
To minimize flare-ups, maintain good general health. Avoid respiratory and other infections.
Expectations (prognosis):
Psoriasis is not curable, but it can be controlled with treatment.
Complications:
- skin cancer
- rapid skin aging
- cataracts
- complications secondary to treatments
- secondary skin infections with spread to internal organs
Calling your health care provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate guttate psoriasis (for example, if psoriasis symptoms develop after a lung infection).
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