03/21/2008

THE POTENTIAL SERIOUSNESS OF PSORIASIS

The common skin disease known as psoriasis is characterized by outbreaks of scaly patches of skin, which can appear all over the body. Causes of this incurable condition seem to be partly genetic, as well as involve some immune dysfunction. While people with mild forms of psoriasis may manage their condition quite well, more severe forms of psoriasis have been linked to depression; higher rates of smoking and alcohol use; and diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and some forms of cancer. Recent research also shows that severe forms of psoriasis appear to shorten life expectancy by about 5% (similar to chronic hypertension risk) compared to that of people without the skin disease, perhaps due to immune dysfunction and/or inflammation.

Psoriasis is a chronic, at times difficult skin disorder which has been linked to several systemic diseases. If you have psoriasis, consider a consultation at Elmhurst Dermatology. We coordinate your care, if needed, with your primary care physician to optimize your overall health – in addition to treating you skin disease. Please call us at 630-832-2111 to arrange an evaluation. We have recently moved to 103 N. Haven Rd. Suite 7, in Elmhurst.