Are Biologic Medications Right For Your Psoriasis?
When psoriasis is difficult to control, the time may be right to explore treatments that go deeper than your typical ointments and creams.
For some patients, biologic medications are an effective option for moderate-to-severe psoriasis, helping address the inflammation behind this chronic autoimmune condition.
Before deciding whether a biologic medication offered by our team at Florida Dermatology Specialists is right for you, it helps to understand how psoriasis affects the body, the different forms it can take, and what your dermatologist considers when recommending treatment.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes the body to produce new skin cells too quickly. This rapid cell turnover can cause skin cells to build up on the surface, resulting in thickened, inflamed, or scaly areas of skin.
Symptoms can vary from person to person and may include:
Red or discolored patches of skin
Thick, raised, or scaly patches
Itching, dryness, or irritation
Cracked or painful skin
Changes to fingernails or toenails
Psoriasis can develop on almost any part of the body, including the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and nails. Some people may also develop psoriatic arthritis, a form of inflammatory arthritis that can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
What Are The Different Types Of Psoriasis?
Psoriasis can take several forms, and each type may look and behave differently. Knowing which type you have can help your dermatologist determine which treatments may be most appropriate.
Common types of psoriasis include:
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form and causes raised, inflamed patches often covered with silvery or white scales. It typically affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.
Guttate psoriasis causes small, drop-shaped patches that may appear across the arms, legs, or trunk. It sometimes develops after an infection like strep throat.
Inverse psoriasis develops in skin folds, such as under the arms or breasts, behind the knees, and in the groin. Affected areas may appear smooth, red, and shiny rather than scaly.
Pustular psoriasis is a less common form of psoriasis that causes uncomfortable white blisters and red, inflamed skin. It can affect specific areas of the body or become more widespread.
Erythrodermic psoriasis is the rarest – and most serious – form of psoriasis. The condition is associated with widespread redness and peeling that covers much of the body and requires immediate medical attention. Patients with this condition also experience severe sensations of burning or itching.
Because psoriasis can look different from one person to another, an accurate diagnosis is an important first step in developing an effective treatment plan, which may include biologic medications.
When Are Biologic Medications Used For Psoriasis?
Biologic medications may be an effective option when:
Psoriasis continues to flare despite other therapies.
You have psoriasis in sensitive or difficult-to-treat areas.
Symptoms interfere with your comfort and quality of life.
Biologics may also be used as part of treatment for people with psoriatic arthritis.
Your dermatologist will consider the severity and location of your psoriasis, your treatment history, your overall health, and other factors when determining whether a biologic treatment may be appropriate for you.
What Can You Expect From Biologic Treatment?
For many patients, biologic medications can reduce inflammation, improve the appearance of psoriasis, and help control flare-ups. Some patients may notice improvement within several weeks, although the timeline can vary depending on the medication and the individual.
Biologic medications are not a cure, so ongoing treatment may be needed to maintain control of your symptoms. Your dermatologist will monitor your response to the medication and make changes if needed.
Like any medication, biologic medications can have potential side effects and risks. Because they affect your immune system, your dermatologist may recommend blood tests and screening for certain infections, such as viral hepatitis, before you begin biologic medication. Once you begin treatment, your dermatologist will monitor your health and response over time.
When Should You Talk To Your Dermatologist About Biologic Medications?
If your psoriasis is persistent, difficult to control, or interfering with your daily life, it may be time to consider whether a biologic medication or another treatment option may be more effective. At Florida Dermatology Specialists, we look at the full picture of your condition, including the type and severity, to develop your personalized psoriasis treatment plan. With
the right strategy, you can feel more comfortable in your skin and reclaim your quality of life.
To learn more about psoriasis treatment options, schedule a consultation at the Florida Dermatology Specialists practice location nearest to you, or click here:
For details on insurance coverage, please visit our Patient Resources page.
