Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Psoriasis is a long-term skin disease that causes skin cells to grow faster than normal. The cells build up on the surface of your skin and cause red patches. The cause of psoriasis is not known. A problem with your immune system or a family history of psoriasis may increase your risk. Psoriasis is not contagious. Psoriasis cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be managed.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Informed consent

is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.

Medicines:

• Topical medicines can be ointments, creams, and pastes and are applied on the skin.
  • Moisturizers and emollients soothe your skin by keeping it moist and preventing dryness.
  • Steroids decrease inflammation.
  • Vitamin D and retinoids are vitamin-based creams that are used to clear plaques.
  • Salicylic acid is a peeling agent that helps decrease scaling of the skin and scalp.
  • Tar preparations decrease itching, scaling, and inflammation. They may be shampoos, creams, or bath oils.
• Systemic medicines are used to treat serious types of psoriasis. They may be taken by mouth or given to you through an IV or as a shot. These medicines include steroids and retinoids. They may also include medicines that decrease the rate of growth of your skin cells or that affect your immune system.
• Antibiotics treat a bacterial infection.

Tests:

• Blood tests may show infection.
• A joint x-ray shows the bones and tissues in your joints. You may be given contrast liquid to help the pictures show up better. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Humira
• Stelara
• clobetasol
• Skyrizi
• Cosentyx

View more treatment options

Phototherapy

, or light therapy, helps stop or slow skin cell growth. Your skin will be put under ultraviolet (UV) light for a period of time.

IV fluids

are given to treat dehydration. The fluids may also include electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium.

RISKS:

Without treatment, your signs and symptoms may get worse. You may develop psoriatic arthritis. You may develop an infection that gets into your blood. This can become life-threatening.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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