Psoriasis (Pharos Excimer Laser)

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a medical condition which is characterized by skin cells which multiply up to 10 times quicker than usual. When underlying cells reach the skin's surface and die, the sheer number creates raised, red plaques with white scales to erupt. Psoriasis usually develops on the elbows, knees, and scalp, but it can also develop on the torso, palms, and soles of the feet. Psoriasis is an immune system condition. 

What Are the Symptoms? 

• Patches of red, inflamed skin. These are often covered with loose, silvery scales. They can be itchy and painful and may crack or bleed.
• Fingernails and toenails may change color or become pitted. They can also crumble or detach from the nail bed.
• Patches of scales or crust may form on the head.

What Causes Flare-ups?

Every person will have unique triggers. When a person knows what causes a flare up, symptoms can be better controlled. Triggers include:

• Cold, dry environments
• Stress
• Certain medicines
• Skin Infections and injury
• Alcohol
• Smoking

What Are the Treatments for Psoriasis?

Psoriasis responds well to several topical and systemic treatments. When less severe, salicylic acid cream, which softens the skin by causing the shedding of irritated areas, is recommend. A common psoriasis treatment is steroid cream which decreases inflammation, reduces itching, and blocks the production of cells which are overproduced. Calcipotriene, which is associated with vitamin D, has also proven to be effective, especially when combined with a topical corticosteroid cream. Coal-tar ointments and shampoos can help to slow the rapid growth of skin cells and lessen symptoms.  Prescription retinoids containing a synthetic form of vitamin A can work to improve psoriasis as well. For persistent, difficult-to-treat cases, many doctors recommend Pharos Excimer Laser treatments, and when all other treatments fail, oral or injectible medications may be prescribed to treat psoriasis.

Pharos Excimer Laser 

PHAROS excimer laser is a laser that delivers concentrated, narrow band phototherapy directly to psoriatic and depigmented lesions limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Continuously adjustable with constant fluence, PHAROS' infinitely variable spot size handpiece and aiming beam allow targeted treatment of affected tissue quickly, easily, and accurately while limiting exposure to healthy skin. This also means that psoriasis patients may need fewer treatments than with traditional phototherapy.