Psoriasis Treatments – Knoxville Institute of Dermatology

At Knoxville Institute of Dermatology, we understand the emotional stress and frustration caused by psoriasis flare-ups. Our experienced providers are here to formulate a treatment plan to help control your flare-ups and ease the burden of this troublesome condition. Schedule an appointment today to begin your personalized psoriasis treatment regimen from Knoxville Institute of Dermatology.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by clearly defined, red and scaly plaques (thickened skin). It is classified into several subtypes.

What causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis affects 2–4% of males and females. It can start at any age including childhood, with peaks of onset at 15–25 years and 50–60 years. It tends to persist lifelong, fluctuating in extent and severity. It is particularly common in Caucasians, but may affect people of any race. About one third of patients with psoriasis have family members with psoriasis.

What are the clinical features of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis usually presents with symmetrically distributed, red, scaly plaques with well-defined edges. The scale is typically silvery white, except in skin folds where the plaques often appear shiny and they may have a moist peeling surface. The most common sites are scalp, elbows and knees, but any part of the skin can be involved. The plaques are usually very persistent without treatment. Itch is mostly mild but may be severe in some patients, leading to scratching and lichenification (thickened leathery skin with increased skin markings). Painful skin cracks or fissures may occur. When psoriatic plaques clear up, they may leave brown or pale marks that can be expected to fade over several months.

What are aggravating factors of Psoriasis?

Certain features of psoriasis can be categorized to help determine appropriate investigations and treatment pathways. Overlap may occur.

Streptococcal tonsillitis and other infections
Injuries such as cuts, abrasions, sunburn (koebnerized psoriasis)
Sun exposure in 10% (sun exposure is more often beneficial)
Obesity
Smoking
Excessive alcohol
Stressful event
Medications such as lithium, beta blockers, antimalarials, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories
Stopping oral steroids or strong topical corticosteroids.

What are health conditions associated with Psoriasis?

Patients with psoriasis are more likely than other people to have other health conditions listed here.

Inflammatory arthritis “psoriatic arthritis” and spondyloarthropathy (in up to 40% of patients with early onset chronic plaque psoriasis)
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis)
Uveitis (inflammation of the eye)
Celiac disease
Metabolic syndrome: obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, gout, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes
Localized palmoplantar pustulosis, generalized pustulosis and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis

How is Psoriasis treated?

Patients with psoriasis should ensure they are well informed about their skin condition and its treatment. There are benefits from not smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol and maintaining optimal weight. Which treatment is selected may depend on body site, extent and severity of psoriasis. Mild Psoriasis is generally treated with topical agents alone. More severe cases of psoriasis may be treated with phototherapy, systemic medications or some combination of the two.

WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY

I have already recommended Dr Raman to a friend. The timeliness getting an appointment, the Covid safe setting, the efficiency of the staff along with the expertise of the doctor are reasons I will return and refer.

M. H.

I had a recurring dermatological condition for several and a series of dermatologists as a result. And yet until I met Dr. Wright, my condition remained undiagnosed and it turned out to be potentially life-threatening. I am so fortunate to have found him and I would not go to anyone else and recommend him often.

D. B.

Timely, professional, thorough and took the time to explain the procedure being done and options for upcoming needed procedure. Steps were taken to protect employees and patients against Covid challenges. I had basil cell removed three times and in different states. This office is the best hands down.

S. J.

This office is very clean, professional and I never have to wait excessive time for my appointment. Dr. Rahman is so thorough and caring and kind. I have had Mohs surgery with Dr. Wright on my face and you cannot even see where the scar is. This is the place to go for your dermatology needs.

C. P.

I’ll be 77 years old in a month and this was my first real skin check-up. I sort of had one a few years ago at a different place but was turned off by their emphasis on selling cosmetic treatments when I wanted to know about skin disease. Dr. Bakke and his assistant seemed to give me a thorough check, burned off some spots, took.a few biopsies, and I was good to go.

R. G.

Everyone is so nice and friendly…the office staff is caring, professional and an asset to your institution. Even though I’ve been going to your office for a few years this is the first time I saw Kegan Reilly. He was very professional and very knowledgeable. He explained everything to me in detail and made me very comfortable in an uncomfortable situation. I highly recommend him for anyone who needs to see a dermatologist. He is definitely an exceptional medical provider.

D. S.

I will be forever grateful to Dr. Anderson for her careful skin exam and detection of the start of a melanoma on my arm. She is pleasant, professional, and kind– everything you would want in a dermatologist.

E. T.

Dr. Anderson and her staff are excellent. I have been a client for several years. I have received the best care. Dr. Anderson is excellent in discovering and treating. problems. Dr. Anderson listens and is honest.

M. J.

The whole experience was a positive one… getting an appointment to see someone relatively soon, receiving several reminders, the (covid) health protections at the office, and the very pleasant and knowledgeable care of Lindsey Best FNP, at my appointment.

P. P.

Sent email & text to inform of arrival procedures, took proper covid-19 protocol to ensure my safety and that of staff and other patients. Doctor and nurse took time to explain what would happen during visit and answered all questions. Explained proper home care of procedure site, made sure I knew how and informed to call office if any problems or questions. Everyone was very helpful, friendly and professional.

D. C.