psoriasis

About a year ago I started getting bumps on my elbows. They were diagnosed as psoriasis. I have tried every topical treatment and nothing works. They have continued to spread, but, are still limited to 5 or 6 plaques per elbow. I have read that surgery is not an option. Why couldn't I have the small plaques surgical removed using a procedure like Moes Microsurgery that ensures all of the plaque is removed just as in removing a skin cancer? Wouldn't this stop the psoriasis from spreading? Why isn't surgery an option?

If surgery is not an option, how effect are pulsed dye lasers?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

If it's psoriasis, surgery is not an option, since it will scare and make the condition worse.  You cut out growths or cancers, not rashes.  Lasers are an option, but there are simpler ones: stronger creams, injections of steroids, ultraviolet light.  Ask your doctor.  Psoriasis can't be cured, but it can be controlled better than yours seems to be.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[shorty82]

I am 23 years old and I have had psoriasis since I was 12. Unfortunately, I have yet to find any topical meds that are completely effective, but there are alot that help. I have had some luck with Dovonex, Psoracon, and Tazorac. The sun is the best thing for my skin- but I can't always get natural sunlight so sometimes I use the tanning bed, but of course you have to be weary b/c of skin cancer. Psoriasis is actually an autoimmune disorder, not a skin disorder(so I have heard)and can be aggrevated by stress-mine first appeared when my parents got divorced. You might want to find something to help you manage your stress. I have found Psoriasis Connections to be helpful-they have alot of good ideas and stories from other people who suffer from psoriasis- I think you can sign up by going to their website. Good luck and I hope you find something that works!

[lorlew]

A related discussion, onset of psoriasis was started.