Psoriasis
What Is It?
Chronic autoimmune skin disease causing thick, red, scaly plaques, most commonly on elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Associated with psoriatic arthritis and cardiovascular risk.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis based on characteristic plaque appearance. Skin biopsy if atypical. Assess for psoriatic arthritis (joint pain, nail changes).
How Is It Treated?
Mild-moderate: topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues (calcipotriene), coal tar. Moderate-severe: phototherapy, methotrexate, cyclosporine. Biologics (TNF, IL-17, IL-23 inhibitors) for severe disease.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
CBC, BMP, liver function, lipid panel (baseline if starting methotrexate or cyclosporine). Uric acid (gout association). X-ray of joints if arthritis suspected.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. Topicals: $20-$80/month. Biologics: $2,000-$5,000/month (co-pay assistance available). Dermatology referral for moderate-severe cases.