Medical Dermatology

Psoriasis is a treatable skin condition that causes dry, scaly, and itchy patches on the surface of the skin.

Psoriasis varies in intensity from individual to individual and from episode to episode. It’s possible to have long intervals of time in between flare-ups.

Treatment for psoriasis is largely centered around the management of symptoms because there is no known cure for this condition. Psoriasis may be experienced along with other conditions associated with immune disorders.

Our compassionate team of dermatologists in Phoenix will work with you to create a management and treatment plan for your psoriasis.

What are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?

Primary symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Red patches of skin
• Dry patches on skin
• Scaly areas of skin
• Itching
• Pain
• Burning sensation
• Silvery discoloration on skin

Note that some symptoms can arise out of psoriasis that are not directly connected with the skin. These include:

• Achy, swollen, and/or stiff joints
• Thickened finger or toenails
• Pitted or ridged finger or toenails

Types of Psoriasis

There are many kinds of psoriasis, depending on where it is located on the body, how it presents, and its seriousness. They are:

• Plaque psoriasis. Silverish, or white-ish patches over red, inflamed areas of the skin. This is the most common type of psoriasis.
• Pustular psoriasis. Presents as pus-filled white blisters and wide swaths of red, swollen skin in localized areas.
• Inverse psoriasis. Shows as bright pink, shiny patches of skin, usually in warm, moist areas like the groin, under the breasts or armpits.
• Guttate psoriasis. Presents as tiny, flat, pink spots alone or in clusters.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis. This type can be life-threatening. It generally covers large areas of the body and may appear very much like a sunburn. Often accompanied by a fever and a feeling of illness.

Certain types of psoriasis are very benign and go away on their own, while other types can be life-threatening. This is why it’s so important to always have your psoriasis diagnosed and analyzed by your dermatologist.

What Causes Psoriasis?

The symptoms of psoriasis may come and go “mysteriously.” However, with attention and focus, certain life events or behaviors may be found to “trigger” psoriasis episodes.

Common triggers for psoriasis episodes include:

• Overindulgence in sugary foods and alcohol
• Increased stress
• Traumatic events
• Other illnesses, such as flu or cold

It is thought that psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, which is caused by the body’s own immune system attacking itself. It is believed that the immune system overreacts to stimuli, resulting in the visible skin outbreaks mentioned above.

Certain people are more likely to develop psoriasis, especially those with:

• Family history of psoriasis
• Heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)
• Chronic depression
• Chronic anxiety
• Psoriatic arthritis

Treatment Options For Psoriasis

At our contemporary dermatology clinic in Phoenix, Camelback Dermatology & Skin Surgery offers insights into diverse psoriasis treatments. Schedule your appointment today for personalized information and care.

Acne is a common, benign skin condition characterized by localized breakouts in the form of postures, blackheads, and whiteheads.

Although acne is most common in teens, adults may also experience episodes of acne breakouts.

The worst part about acne is its appearance. Since acne most frequently occurs on the face, breakouts can cause extreme embarrassment and lead to a lack of self-confidence.

Acne is highly treatable by your dermatologist. With our premier private dermatology practice in Phoenix, help for acne is just a short drive away.

What are the Symptoms of Acne?

Since there are many types of acne, symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity.

Generally, the most common symptoms of acne include:

• Whiteheads. These are pores that are both closed and plugged.
• Blackheads. These happen in pores that are plugged, yet still open.
• Papules. These are small bumps that are red and tender to the touch.
• Pimples. Commonly known as pustules. These are papules, but they have pus at their tips.
• Nodules. These are painful lumps under the skin that are solid and typically large.
• Cystic lesions. These are defined as pus-filled lumps under the skin that are quite painful.

Types of Acne

The two most common forms of acne are:

• Noninflammatory
• Inflammatory

Within these categories are subcategories. For example, noninflammatory acne is characterized by blackheads and whiteheads, both of which rarely cause swelling and usually respond to over-the-counter medications.

As for inflammatory acne, this includes papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. This type of acne is more difficult to treat since it involves infections that are deeper underneath the skin.

What Causes Acne?

When acne appears, it is due to four main factors that may work in combination with one another. These include:

• Hair follicles clogged by dead skin cells and oil
• Excess production of oil
• Inflammation
• Bacteria

Along with these factors, other things can trigger an acne attack or worsen existing acne. Among these are:

• Hormonal changes
• Medications
• Stress
• Diet

When hormonal changes occur during puberty or midlife, androgen production increases and can trigger or worsen acne. Also, medications containing testosterone or corticosteroids can make acne worse.

Treatment for Acne

You may have spent a lot of time trying various treatments to get rid of your acne. But the best treatment for all types of acne is dermatologic treatment.

With our premier private dermatology practice in Phoenix, Camelback Dermatology & Skin Surgery can help end the cycle of acne.