What Are the Treatments for Palmar-Plantar Psoriasis?
It can feel like your hands and feet have turned against you. It can make simple walking or reaching for an object a painful experience. It can make you embarrassed to show people your hands. "It" is Palmar-Plantar psoriasis. While some forms of psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body, Palmar-Plantar outbreaks usually form on the hands or feet. This can limit movement and activity in severe cases. While there is no cure, there are treatments that reduce the effects of Palmar-Plantar psoriasis.
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Identification
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Palmar-Plantar is also known as palmoplantar psoriasis. According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, outbreaks usually consist of eraser-sized pustules on the soles of the feet or palms of the hand. The pustules look red at first, then grow thicker and turn brown.
Progression
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Like most forms of psoriasis, Palmar-Plantar occurs due to an overactive immune system. Research indicates that psoriasis patients have too many active T-cells, which help the body infection. Skin lesions and related problems are a side-effect of the overactive T-cells. Left untreated, the lesions tend to crack and bleed. Eventually, they will blister and peel. In the most severe cases, this can restrict a patient's ability to walk or hold objects in their hands. Nails on affected hands and feet may thicken, discolor and crack.
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Treatment for Mild Outbreaks
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According to the American Academy of Dermatology, creams and lotions may be used to moisturize the skin and reduce cracking. Coal tar may reduce inflammation, and prescription steroids may clear skin lesions.
Advanced Treatment
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The AAD notes that more severe cases may respond to Acitretin. This drug helps normalize skin growth, relieving the symptoms. It's especially effective for clearing the hands and feet. Treatment with ultraviolet radiation treatment (light therapy) may also prove effective. Methotrexate, a powerful cancer-fighting drug, has been shown to help in very severe cases that do not respond to other treatments.
Time Frame
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Like most forms of psoriasis, Palmar-Plantar tends to recur throughout a patient's lifetime. As with other forms of psoriasis, specific treatments may lose effectiveness over time, requiring patients to try different medications and therapies to control symptoms.
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