What is Psoriasis and What Treatments Are Available in Boca Raton?

Boca Raton Psoriasis Treatment

So what is psoriasis? It is a persistent, long-lasting skin condition that accelerates the life cycle of skin cells. It causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, forming scales and red patches that are itchy and sometimes painful.

Jillian H. Frieder, MD FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified Boca Raton dermatologist, specializing in psoriasis with unique fellowship training in clinical research. Dr. Frieder earned her undergraduate honors from the University of Arizona, pursued medical studies at Wayne State University, graduating With Distinction, and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society.

Healthy skin begins here with comprehensive treatment for psoriasis at Frider Dermatology

She completed her medical internship at St. John Hospital, followed by a specialized two-year Dermatology Clinical Research Fellowship focused on psoriasis under Dr. Alan Menter in Dallas, TX, where she contributed as a sub-investigator in numerous clinical trials. Her journey continued at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, where she completed her dermatology residency and served as Chief Resident.

Types and Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a stubborn ailment but not contagious. It is an auto-immune disorder closely related to rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The exact cause is unknown, though it is thought to be related to genetics and environmental factors.

Psoriasis manifests in various forms, each with distinct characteristics:

  • Plaque Psoriasis: The most prevalent type, characterized by raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells or scale. These plaques often appear on the scalp, knees, elbows, and lower back.
  • Guttate Psoriasis: Typically starts in childhood or young adulthood, featuring small, water-drop-shaped sores on the trunk, arms, legs, and scalp.
  • Inverse Psoriasis: Causes bright red, shiny lesions that occur in skin folds, such as under the breasts, in the groin, or around the genitals and buttocks.
  • Pustular Psoriasis: Characterized by white pustules surrounded by red skin, predominantly occurring on the hands or feet.
  • Erythrodermic Psoriasis: The least common type that can cover large portions of the body at once with a red, peeling rash that can itch or burn intensely.

Symptoms vary based on the type but generally include red patches, dry, cracked skin that may bleed, itching, burning, and joint pain. The severity can vary greatly from person to person, often with cycles of flare-ups and remission.

The Role of Medical Dermatology

Medical dermatology plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing psoriasis. Dr. Frieder can offer comprehensive psoriasis treatment plans tailored to the individual’s symptoms, health history, and the severity of the condition. The treatments she offers aim to reduce inflammation and clear the skin.

Psoriasis Treatment Options

  • Topical Treatments: Creams and ointments applied directly to the skin can reduce inflammation and cell turnover. These include corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and coal tar.
  • Light Therapy: This involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light under medical supervision to slow cell turnover and reduce scaling.
  • Systemic Medications: For severe psoriasis or when other treatments are ineffective, medications that affect the entire body may be used. These include methotrexate, cyclosporine, biologics, and new oral treatments.
  • Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies: Managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding known triggers can help manage flare-ups.

Seeking Professional Medical Advice

It’s crucial to consult a dermatologist like Dr. Frieder for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Dermatologists specialize in skin conditions and can provide the most effective treatment options tailored to each individual’s condition.

Frieder Dermatology in Boca Raton

At Frieder Dermatology, located off Clint Moore Road in Boca Raton, we specialize in a range of cosmetic and medical dermatology treatments. Dr. Jillian Frieder, a board-certified dermatologist with fellowship training in psoriasis, offers extensive treatment options for psoriasis as well as for other medical skin conditions like skin cancer, acne, rosacea, and eczema. We believe in early detection and management of skin cancers and are dedicated to providing personalized care to all our patients.

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a complex condition with various manifestations and degrees of severity. While there is no cure, effective management is possible through a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and professional medical advice.

If you are experiencing symptoms of psoriasis, schedule a consultation with Frider Dermatology, Boca Raton’s premier dermatologist. Dr Frieder can guide the best course of action for your specific condition. Remember, with the right treatment plan, living with psoriasis can become much more manageable.

To book an appointment, click here or give us a call at (561) 210-7310.