THE MANAGEMENT OF PSORIASIS

Psoriasis is a common condition affecting 1.5-2.0% of Western populati ons. It occurs equally commonly in men and women. Although it affects mainly the skin, an associated arthritis occurs in approximately 3-4% of those affected. It is rarely life-threatening, but is frequently th e cause of significant morbidity, both physical and psychosocial. Mana gement may involve topical treatments, phototherapy or photochemothera py or systemic agents. The choice of treatment depends on a variety of factors, including the extent and type of the cutaneous lesions, the presence of an associated arthritis and whether the patient has any ot her intercurrent disease. Patients receiving treatment with systemic a gents require careful supervision, as those currently used have potent ially serious adverse effects.