A critical appraisal of the assessment and management of psoriasis
Phillips, Alyesha
Phillips, Alyesha
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Abstract
Abstract published with permission.
Psoriasis affects a substantial number of the UK population. The chronic
inflammatory skin disease that typically follows a relapsing and remitting course,
resulting from the abnormal activation of T cells and associated increase in
cytokines in affected tissues, can transpire at any age (Gould and Dyer, 2011).
Plaque psoriasis is by far the most common type of the disease making up 90%
of all cases and can result in all of functional, psychological and social morbidity
(Basavaraj et al, 2011). Moreover, psoriasis has been linked with an increased
risk of developing cardiovascular disease. There are a considerable amount
of treatment options available for psoriasis, resulting in variance in practice
within primary care, particularly concerning when to refer, drug monitoring and
psychological support (Murphy and Reich, 2011). This is important to recognise
within the paramedic profession as there is now an increased responsibility
for paramedics to discharge patients within their own home and/or refer
when necessary and safe to do so. Moreover, there is minimal knowledge on
dermatology in the paramedic profession, further fortifying the importance of
learning about the best treatment option for psoriasis. A stepwise approach to
treatment is recommended, dependent on the severity of the disease (National
Institute for Health and Care Excellence, 2012).