How Is Psoriasis Treated?

Topical Treatments

According to the Mayo Clinic, mild to moderate cases of psoriasis can be treated with ointments and creams. These topical treatments may be used in more severe cases, but are combined with other types of treatments. The most common topical treatment is corticosteroid cream, which eases itching and inflammation. Synthetic vitamin D creams, topical retinoids, anthralin and calcineurin inhibitors may be used. These treatments are available only by prescription. Psoriasis can be treated with nonprescription topical treatments, such as salicylic acid and coal tar. Moisturizing cream is often used in combination with other creams.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy, or light therapy, treats psoriasis by exposing the affected areas to either natural or artificial ultraviolet lighting. This can be a controlled amount of sunshine or artificial ultraviolet A or ultraviolet B lighting. According to the Mayo Clinic, some patients are given drugs to increase their sensitivity to light prior to treatment. Excimer lasers are sometimes used to treat psoriasis, because they deliver a controlled beam of UVB that only affects the psoriasis patches and doesn't damage surrounding skin.

Oral Medication

The Mayo Clinic says that several drugs can be used to treat psoriasis, including retinoids and methotrexate, which slow down the production of skin cells, and cyclosporine, which suppresses the immune system. Hydroxyurea is a milder drug that is often used in combination with light therapy. While those drugs are all given in pill form, some doctors use immunomodulator drugs that are given via an injection. These injectable drugs affect the immune system and are usually reserved for cases that have not responded to other treatment.

Resources

• Mayo Clinic information