Psoriasis Specialist

Knipe Dermatology

Board Certified Dermatologists located in Orlando, FL

Psoriasis is a skin condition that develops from an overproduction of skin cells, which causes scaly, red, sometimes itchy patches of skin. Though there is no cure for psoriasis, Knipe Dermatology in Orlando, Florida, can help you manage the flare-ups. Ronald C. Knipe, MD, and Samantha A. Marrone, MD, develop personalized psoriasis treatment plans based on the type and severity of your symptoms. To schedule a consultation for psoriasis, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Psoriasis Q & A

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition that triggers your skin cells to regenerate at an accelerated rate. The overproduction of skin cells occurs because of problems with the immune system.

In most people with psoriasis, the excess skin cells create red, scaly patches of skin. These patches most often occur on the knees, elbows, scalp, nails, and trunk of the body.

Psoriasis tends to occur in cycles. You may experience skin flare-ups that last for weeks or months and then go away.

Knipe Dermatology can help you manage your skin condition to minimize flare-ups. 

What are the types of psoriasis?

There are many types of psoriasis that cause different symptoms and affect different parts of the body. The types include:

Plaque psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis causes red, scaly patches of skin. This is the most common type of psoriasis.

Pustular psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis causes pus-filled lesions to form on the skin. The lesions may appear on your hands or feet or all over your body.

Inverse psoriasis

With inverse psoriasis, you develop a smooth, red, painful rash in your skin folds, such as your groin or armpits. 

Erythrodermic psoriasis

Erythrodermic psoriasis causes a red peeling rash that covers the whole body. 

Guttate psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis may develop after an infection and cause small, drop-shaped lesions. 

Psoriasis may also affect the joints (psoriatic arthritis) or nails (nail psoriasis). 

What happens during a psoriasis consultation?

When you visit Knipe Dermatology for a psoriasis consultation, your provider conducts an in-depth clinical exam to fully assess your skin condition. 

During the exam, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms and the location of your lesions. They also review your personal and family medical history.

Though your provider diagnoses psoriasis during a skin evaluation, they may send a sample of tissue out for testing to confirm your diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions.  

How is psoriasis treated?

Your provider at Knipe Dermatology creates a personalized treatment plan for your psoriasis based on the type, severity and frequency of your symptoms, your medical history, and personal preferences.

Treatment may include:

  • Topical creams and lotions (e.g., corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, salicylic acid)
  • Light therapy
  • Oral steroids
  • Methotrexate to suppress immune system response
  • Biologics to disrupt the immune-mediated disease cycle

Getting an early diagnosis and treatment plan for psoriasis may prevent or minimize flare-ups. 

For expert care of psoriasis from an experienced provider, call Knipe Dermatology, or book an appointment online today.