Treatment of psoriasis: An algorithm-based approach for primary care physicians

Psoriasis is characterized by red, thickened plaques with a silvery scale. The lesions vary in size and degree of inflammation. Psoriasis is categoriz ed as localized or generalized, based on the severity of the disease and it s overall impact on the patient's quality of life and well-being. Patient e ducation about the disease and the treatment options is important. Medical treatment for localized psoriasis begins with a combination of topical cort icosteroids and coal tar or calcipotriene. For lesions that are difficult t o control with initial therapy, anthralin or tazarotene may be tried. The p rimary goal of therapy is to maintain control of the lesions. Cure is seldo m achieved. If control becomes difficult or if psoriasis is generalized, th e patient may benefit from phototherapy, systemic therapy and referral to a physician who specializes in the treatment of psoriasis.