[An update on scalp psoriasis]

Actas Dermosifiliogr. 2009 Sep;100(7):536-43.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Between 50 % and 80 % of patients with psoriasis have involvement of the scalp. The clinical presentation of scalp psoriasis can be very varied, with disease severity ranging from mild to extremely severe.The disease may have a major psychological impact. Treatment should be tailored to each individual in order to achieve a good clinical response or blanching that lasts for as long as possible, with a safe and convenient regimen. Many different treatments have been tried: phototherapy, pulsed magnetic fields, Grenz rays, keratolytics, coal tar, antifungals, dithranol, retinoids, vitamin D analogues, corticosteroids, and systemic treatment. Ideally, for scalp psoriasis, treatment should be effective; applied in the form of a lotion, foam, or emulsion; require few applications per week; and have proven long-term safety. One such treatment is potent corticosteroids and vitamin D3 analogues in combination, which has a fast onset of action and proven long-term safety.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Psoriasis* / diagnosis
  • Psoriasis* / drug therapy
  • Scalp Dermatoses* / diagnosis
  • Scalp Dermatoses* / drug therapy