General description of vulgar psoriasis: photos, symptoms, forms of the disease, treatment methods

Common vulgar psoriasis is a disease that, by its very name, can cause special concern for many. This type of psoriasis is quite common and requires immediate treatment at the first signs of manifestation. Treatment will require a lot of patience and a lot of strength, and the sooner it begins, the more negative consequences can be avoided.

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Vulgar psoriasis: causes, signs, treatment

Vulgar psoriasis has other names that are more familiar to us - simple and plaque. The first signs of the disease, which should be a signal to go to the doctor, are plaques, papules and inflamed spots that are prone to peeling. Over time, the process becomes more complex, there are more foci, and every second patient has a tendency to frequent relapses.

If the disease is treated in time, psoriatic plaques can leave the skin completely, however, in some patients pigment spots remain at the site of the lesion.

Symptoms

Psoriasis, what is it and what are its main features? Vulgar is the most common form of the disease, which is also called ordinary and plaque. According to statistics, about 80% of all diagnosed cases are due to this pathology.

Plaque psoriasis is characterized by the appearance of inflamed areas on the skin, which are slightly raised above healthy skin and covered with a grayish film. When this film is removed, red skin appears, which is easily injured and bleeds due to the large number of small vessels. These lesions are called psoriatic plaques. They tend to grow, and when they reach neighboring affected areas of the skin, they merge with them, forming plates of plaques - the so-called “paraffin lakes”.

At the initial stage, plaque psoriasis manifests itself in the form of isolated areas of rashes on the skin of large joints or on the scalp. Papules are pale pink in color, dense to the touch, raised above the surface of the dermis. They are identified by clearly defined nodules, while peeling does not occur on each of the elements. However, when a hand is passed over the affected area, instant detachment of the scales occurs.

At the same time, as vulgar psoriasis progresses, the number of elements also increases. They degenerate into plaques that affect more and more areas of the dermis and merge together. Psoriasis vulgaris is localized in the following areas of the body:

1. May occur on the face.
2. Affects the skin of the lumbosacral region.
3. It can affect the dermis in the area of ​​the extensor part of the limbs.

However, more often the rashes are more often localized in the following areas of the dermis:

• armpit area;
• groin;
• knee joint;
• elbow joint.

The color of the lesions can vary, flowing from pale pink to rich red interspersed with small gray-silver scales. In this case, new elements appear in the patient as a result of trauma to existing papules.

Lichen squamosus can enter an acute phase at different times of the year, and in some psoriatic patients it occurs 12 months a year. A year-round course is rare; more often relapses are replaced by remissions. The photo shows vulgar psoriasis, which has already formed plates of plaques.

In some cases, psoriasis vulgaris has a mild course, and its periods of exacerbation occur infrequently. In other cases, the patient’s medical history of vulgar psoriasis is replete with transitions to the acute phase - then the lesions occupy large areas of the skin.

Important! Cases have been recorded where ordinary psoriasis arose suddenly and immediately gave acute symptoms.

When psoriatic lesions of the dermis occur, they may be accompanied by the following manifestations:

1. The appearance of papules and plaques in different parts of the body.
2. Intense itching in the area of ​​the rash.
3. Redness of the dermis.
4. Excessive dryness and flaking of the skin.

Mostly, vulgar psoriasis is characterized by a mild form of the course. However, if it is not treated promptly, it can quickly become severe and affect large areas of the body.

Psoriasis vulgaris is characterized by the fact that symptomatic manifestations arise gradually - the number of rashes slowly increases, and only after reaching a certain percentage of the total surface of the skin does scaly pityriasis make itself felt fully.

It is not difficult to identify vulgar psoriasis, since its main symptom is the “psoriatic triad”. It presents three specific symptoms:

1. Stearic stain. When removing the scales from the surfaces of the plaques, they come off like shavings and resemble stearin.
2. Terminal film. After the plaque has been cleared of scales, it has a smooth, glossy surface of a rich scarlet color. Such skin is easily injured, as it is extremely thin.
3. Bloody dew. When the film is removed, small droplets of blood appear. There are especially many of them at the edges of the plaque.

If a person has all these signs, then psoriasis is diagnosed.

Fact! In addition to vulgar psoriasis, there are other forms of the disease.

The main causes of vulgar psoriasis

There are no exact reasons for the occurrence of vulgar psoriasis, there are only indirect ones, which are rather assumptions for what reasons the disease began to exist. These factors include:

• Genetic predisposition or heredity - the disease can be transmitted from ancestors to descendants. Most often, this especially affects the second, fifth and sixth generations.
• Disorders related to the endocrine system.
• Disturbance of metabolic processes in the body. The disease can occur due to an excess of certain enzymes or if there are problems in cholesterol metabolism.
• Nervous stress, stress, moral overload. Psoriatic plaques can appear after severe nervous shock, daily stress and an unstable psychological state.

Psoriasis became known in ancient times. In this regard, the name of the disease has ancient Greek roots. In Ancient Hellas, “psora” was the name for all skin diseases that were accompanied by severe itching and flaking.

There are also a number of factors that can affect the onset of the disease:

• Mechanical damage to the skin (injuries, wounds, burns, scratching after insect bites).
• Skin damage from cleaning products, ultraviolet rays and chemicals.
• Diseases caused by infection.
• Hormonal disorders.
• Diabetes.
• Allergic reaction to certain medications.
• Lack of some vital elements or vitamins.
• Wrong lifestyle.

In a word, the disease can appear out of nowhere, and in any person, therefore, everyone needs to know what it is in order to contact a specialist in time.

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What treatment methods are used?

To effectively treat such a disease, you always need to consult a doctor on time, undergo a full examination, take most and multiple tests, and follow all the doctor’s instructions. For vulgar psoriasis, treatment is always selected individually - there is no one panacea for all patients. In many ways, the success of therapy will depend on a well-chosen technique, preventive measures and accompanying proper nutrition. We can highlight some basic stages in the treatment of dermatitis such as psoriasis vulgaris, in which everything that the patient’s body can withstand is used and the healing will produce positive results.

Stages of treatment for common plaque psoriasis:

1. Examination of the patient at the intracellular, intrasystemic and external levels.
2. Preliminary prescription of drugs: sedative drugs are prescribed for severe distress - liquid valerian, Suprastin or Tavegil;
3. the use of ointments and medicinal creams - “Diprosalik”, “Zdorov”, “Lokoid” or “Akriderm” and other options;
4. the most severe stages are suppressed by cytostatics - Methotrexate or Cyclosporine.

IMPORTANT! It is very important for the patient to keep his own diary, where he will record certain changes that occur under the influence of treatment methods. Then it will be much easier for the doctor to choose a specific therapeutic technique.

It is extremely important for patients with plaque psoriasis to avoid nervous shock, maintain normal diet, sleep, rest, be active, do more physical exercise, and spend time actively to speed up metabolism. The examination and treatment methods for the disease in such patients will always be comprehensive. There are no age specific features; ordinary psoriasis can suddenly appear in any person who has experienced, for example, a recent infectious disease, or who has a genetic predisposition.

Symptoms

Vulgar psoriasis is manifested by the following symptoms:

• the appearance of reddish papules throughout the body;
• scaly rashes spread near large joints;
• a film effect may also appear that covers psoriatic lesions;
• at the initial stage, the rash can spread throughout the body at high speed, and at some point this process stops for a while.

In Ancient Rus', this disease was viewed in two ways: some called it “imperial”, others “a disease from the devil.”

According to the observations of dermatologists, the symptoms of vulgar psoriasis are gradual. For a long time, small rashes appear on the same areas of the skin and scalp. If stimulating factors appear, for example, bad habits, stress, injuries, hormonal disorders, then the intensity of the spread of foci of the disease increases several times.

Etiology and pathogenesis

Today, there are two main theories that characterize the process of psoriasis.

The first theory associates the occurrence of psoriasis with a disruption in the development and maturation of skin cells. According to its supporters, it is the dysfunction of the epidermis that is a consequence of the disease. This theory is supported by the achievement of a positive effect during the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris with drugs that can slow down the proliferation of keratocytes without having an immunomodulatory effect.

The second point of view considers psoriasis as an immunopathological, autoimmune disease. Proponents of this theory associate the development of psoriasis with the fact that cells, whose purpose is to protect the body from various types of infections, penetrate the skin and secrete a cytokine, which provokes inflammation of the skin. There are many statements and speculations to support this theory. However, the direct role of immunity in the development of psoriasis vulgaris cannot be considered conclusively proven.

Types and forms of vulgar psoriasis

In most cases, plaques are chosen for their localization in places such as: elbows, knees, lower back. Over time, the spots swell, become denser and spread to the buttocks, thighs, legs and other parts of the body. The crusts that appear initially shine, then liquid begins to secrete through them. If you do not treat the disease in time, you can get acquainted with the pustular stage of vulgar psoriasis, which is the most dangerous and can cause death.

Psoriasis vulgaris is divided into three main types:

• stable;
• retrogressive;
• progressive.

Ancient doctors had little to say about a disease such as psoriasis and therefore it was very often confused with other skin diseases. For the first time, psoriasis was given its own niche and separated from other similar pathologies in 1799, by Robert Willan, a dermatologist from England.

The disease has the following degrees in which it occurs:

• 10% of the skin is affected in severe psoriasis;
• with a mild form, up to 3% of the body is affected;
• and, lesions from 3% to 10% are classified as moderate.

Internal preparations ↑

Plaque psoriasis is also treated orally. This treatment reduces the symptoms of psoriatic disease by inhibiting specific molecules associated with inflammation. Unlike biological products obtained from natural sources, which must be administered intramuscularly or intravenously, tablets can be much more affordable.

Otezla for psoriasis

One of the most popular drugs is Otezla. It is taken orally to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The drug treats psoriatic arthritis by regulating inflammation inside the cell. It inhibits enzymes known as phosphodiesterase type 4, or PDE4. This substance controls much of the inflammatory action within cells, which allows it to influence the level of damage associated with plaque psoriasis. Only an experienced doctor can tell how useful it is.

Diagnosis of vulgar psoriasis

A specialist always begins the diagnosis of any psoriasis with an external examination. During the examination, the dermatologist should identify three main factors that indicate the presence of psoriasis. To do this, the top covering of the plaque is scraped off.

1. Stearic stain: that is, when the top layer is removed, small scales appear.
2. “Blood dew”: If you scrape for too long, blood may appear, most often in the form of small drops that look like dew.
3. Terminal film: During the exfoliation process, a surface similar to a smooth, shiny film appears.

The dermatologist also determines the type of psoriasis, how many plaques have appeared on the entire skin of the body, their condition, and whether there are any serious complications.

After an external examination, the patient is sent for blood and urine tests. This will help identify inflammation and concomitant diseases that could trigger the rash. The tests will also help to identify how the medications you take act on the body and what medications the doctor can subsequently prescribe, without possible unpleasant consequences.

If necessary, the treating dermatologist may prescribe a biopsy of a piece of skin covered with a rash. This will make it possible to confirm or exclude a sexually transmitted disease such as syphilis.

Psoriatic arthritis can occur with the disease, so sometimes doctors insist on blood tests and x-rays. X-rays can determine the extent of joint damage. Since many patients complain of severe pain in their knees or elbows, but there are no other signs of psoriasis. A thorough and correct examination will help to accurately diagnose and prescribe adequate therapy.

Complications and consequences

Psoriatic arthritis

This complication can lead to joint damage and even loss of function in some of them, all accompanied by severe pain.

Eye problems

Some eye diseases, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and uveitis, are more common in people with psoriasis.

Obesity

Patients with this disease, especially in its severe stage, are more likely to be obese. There is no clear correlation between these diseases, but inflammation associated with obesity may play a significant role in the further development of the pathology. It is also hypothesized that patients with severe body rashes are more likely to gain weight simply because they tend to be less active.

Diabetes mellitus type 2

When is hospitalization recommended?

Timely and correct therapy often helps to obtain positive results: from complete relief of all signs of psoriasis to the elimination of subsequent pigmentation. If the disease periodically relapses, then with the help of modern medications it is possible to achieve long-term remission. But there are some cases that require hospitalization:

• when large areas of the body are affected, the disease constantly causes itching, which makes the patient scratch until he bleeds, which can lead to infection and infection;
• nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, high fever;
• if there are serious concomitant diseases or organ dysfunctions;
• when outpatient treatment does not bring a positive result.

If a specialist recommends hospitalization, you should not refuse; this will help to avoid many health problems later.

Ambulatory treatment

Vulgar psoriasis, its treatment of moderate forms, is well carried out on an outpatient basis. This is mainly local therapy. A diet must also be prescribed that excludes:

• alcohol;
• fat;
• spices;
• spicy;
• citrus;
• smoked;
• eggs;
• mayonnaise and much more that is not on the list of healthy foods and those that can cause an allergic reaction.

Winston Churchill suffered from psoriasis for a long time and promised that he would erect a golden monument to the person who could reveal all the secrets of this disease and find effective ways to combat it.

The patient is also advised to avoid nervous tension, stress and avoid any conflict situations. It is advisable to adjust your daily routine: go to bed at bedtime, breathe more fresh air, eat at the same time. Lack of sleep should be excluded.

Daily warm baths with herbs will help relieve discomfort on the skin, soothe and relieve all possible inflammatory processes. In this case, you can use decoctions of calendula and chamomile. You can add tea leaves and pine extract to your bath.

Under no circumstances should you use a washcloth when taking a bath or shower. It is recommended that after finishing the procedure, carefully pat your body dry with a soft towel, without making rough or sudden movements.

Very often, experts recommend sunbathing, mud therapy, balneotherapy in specialized sanatoriums, and PUVA courses. Local treatment is also prescribed - hormonal and non-hormonal.

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How to treat?

Therapy for plaque psoriasis is prescribed by a dermatologist.

Attention! The specialist determines the selection of medications and duration of treatment based on the severity, development and individual characteristics of the patient.

Patients with mild and moderate forms are treated on an outpatient basis . Severe and extensive skin lesions may even require hospitalization .

Ambulatory treatment

The main principle of successful treatment is an individual, comprehensive approach to each patient, which includes:

• Prescription of external medications. Good results are achieved by using ointments based on salicylic acid, tar, and cream with vitamin D. If the inflammatory process does not decrease, glucocorticoid hormonal ointments (hydrocortisone) are prescribed. Non-hormonal drugs include dithranol, anthralin, and tazarotene.
• Antihistamines .
• Taking vitamins B, C, A, D, E. Taking calcium shows good results, especially when administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
• During treatment, it is imperative to adhere to a diet that excludes any foods that can provoke allergic reactions: tropical fruits, citrus fruits, strawberries, carrots, chicken and others. Be sure to exclude smoked foods, spices, semi-finished products, sweets, carbonated sweet water, and preservatives.
• You definitely need to follow a daily routine , rest more, play sports, and walk in the fresh air.
• Since psoriasis is often a consequence of stress, you should try not to succumb to its influence. It would not be superfluous to contact a psychotherapist for behavioral therapy and training in relaxation techniques.
• During a relapse of the disease, do not use a washcloth while taking a shower and do not use various cosmetics (shower gels, scented soaps, etc.). A dermatologist may recommend temporarily not washing the affected areas of the skin with plain baby soap to prevent the development of the disease.
• If the relapse occurs in spring and summer, sunbathing . Natural ultraviolet irradiation has a beneficial effect on affected skin. Swimming in clean, fresh water will also be beneficial.

Hospital treatment

Hospitalization may be required if outpatient treatment does not have the desired result and the disease begins to progress rapidly.

• In this case, plaques begin to occupy a significant part of the skin surface.
• Unpleasant sensations appear (itching, pain, severe peeling)
• Intoxication occurs (weakness, fever, headache).

Inpatient treatment is complex.
Includes oral and intravenous medications, local therapy, and dietary menu. If blood pressure increases, a course of magnesium sulfate injections is prescribed. Psoriasis is a serious disease that requires constant monitoring by a specialist and long-term complex treatment.

It is very important to recognize its signs in time and begin timely therapy to prevent the spread of plaques on the skin and the worsening of the condition.

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