poriasis steroid creams

I have poriasis on my elbows, scalp and penis. I can deal with the poriais on my elbows and scalp but the penis is the problem. My question is this, I use creams like locoid every single day because once I stop using it the itching and scaling come back and it bothers me but because I have been using this stuff for  years, will it have an affect on my system in some way? I don't use much but I have to use it or dermatop every day to control it.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

I understand your concern. Due to the sensitive character of the skin in the genitalia, penile psoriasis is usually treated more conservatively compared to psoriatic lesions in other areas. Usually a mild or weakly potent steroid cream is used since the more potent ones may cause skin thinning or scarring.

In your case, I suggest that you maintain close follow up with your physician. Each patient has varying response to the medication . Steroid use  should always warrant close supervision and periodic assessment. Your medication may need to be evaluated and modified.

For penile psoriasis , it seems that mildly  potent steroids are the mainstay for therapy. UV therapy entails a lot of risks and other topical medications may aggravate the condition.