Psoriasis
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Bailey C. Lee, MD, FAAD
Cosmetic Dermatology & General Dermatology located in Minneapolis, MN
Approximately 7.5 million Americans suffer from psoriasis, an uncomfortable skin condition that causes red patches and silvery scales. Bailey Lee, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist offering innovative treatment solutions at her offices in Fridley and Maple Grove, Minnesota. Call the closest office or book online to learn how she can help you manage psoriasis.
Psoriasis Q & A
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition in which your body speeds up the cycle of skin cell production. Usually, skin cells have a lifespan of about 28 days and then shed. With psoriasis, your skin cells mature quickly – sometimes in fewer than six days – and your old skin cells don’t have time to shed. The dead skin cells build up on top of each other resulting in silvery, flaky patches of skin.
What are the different types of psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a set of skin conditions. The types include:
- Plaque psoriasis, which is the most common type and leads to inflamed, red lesions and white scales on the knees, elbows, scalp, and lower back
- Guttate psoriasis, which looks like small red pimples and develops on your trunk or limbs
- Inverse psoriasis, which describes bright red lesions that develop in the folds of your skin, such as the armpits, buttocks, and groin
- Pustular psoriasis, which can develop anywhere on your body and is characterized by small, pus-filled white blisters
- Erythrodermic psoriasis, which causes severe inflammation and fiery-red skin
If you experience any of these symptoms, call Dr. Lee’s office immediately.
What treatments for psoriasis are available?
Dr. Lee develops a customized treatment plan for your particular type, location, and severity of psoriasis. If you have mild-to-moderate psoriasis that affects 10% or less of your body, you may benefit from:
- Phototherapy
- Pulsed-dye laser treatments
- Prescriptions that include topical corticosteroids and special lubricating moisturizers
For more severe cases of psoriasis that affects more than 10% of your body, you may require:
- Ultraviolet A light rays combined with a psoralen medication
- Medications that slow down the growth of skin cells
- Medications that suppress your immune system
Dr. Lee discusses your treatment options with you so you know exactly what to expect. She often offers a combination of solutions to treat your psoriasis. Although psoriasis can’t be cured, it can be successfully managed so your quality of life improves.
If you notice symptoms that suggest psoriasis or you’ve suffered from the condition for a while, contact Dr. Lee at one of her offices or make an appointment using the online tool.
