Diagnosis and treatment of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disease that is still not fully understood. In general, it is a dermatological condition caused by immune system dysfunction. It usually begins between the ages of 27 and 30 in both men and women and has a chronic course. Psoriasis is characterized by abnormal and accelerated reproduction and maturation of skin cells.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

This disease can appear on any part of the body. The key symptoms include:

• Severe redness of affected areas (papules), with active shedding of dead skin cells;
• Merging papules forming large plaques covering extensive areas of skin;
• Nail layer separation and deformation;
• Blisters and cracks on palms and soles.

Psoriasis often progresses severely, accompanied by prolonged depression. In the most advanced cases, it may be complicated by arthritis. A neglected form of the disease can deprive a person of the ability to live a full life and move freely.

Classification of Psoriasis

Based on the nature of skin lesions and disease progression, several types of psoriasis are distinguished:

• Plaque psoriasis – occurs in 85% of cases. Appears as inflamed, raised, easily flaking skin in the form of plaques. These plaques are easily traumatized and continuously expand onto new areas of the skin;
• Inverse psoriasis – smooth red patches located in skin folds. It can be found in the armpits, groin area, inner thighs, and under the breasts in women. Often complicated by fungal infection;
• Guttate psoriasis – triggered by streptococcal infection. Appears as small raised spots resembling drops, which cover large areas of the skin;
• Exudative psoriasis – the most severe form affecting the skin. Affected areas develop swollen blisters filled with exudate, mainly localized on forearms and calves. At the final stage, these lesions spread across the body, forming large red blisters;
• Psoriatic onodystrophy – changes in fingernails and toenails. Nail alterations vary — from color and pigmentation to complete nail loss;
• Psoriatic arthritis – affects small joints of the fingers, causing limb swelling. Often spreads to other joints, limiting mobility and requiring assistive devices. In rare cases, this form can be life-threatening.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Modern medicine cannot precisely identify the root cause of psoriasis. However, many doctors believe that its development is associated with a sharp drop in immunity. Strong psychological stress may also play a role. Less than half of medical professionals studying psoriasis think that endocrine and metabolic factors may act as triggers. There is also a strong genetic component involved.

How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Psoriasis itself cannot be diagnosed through blood tests or laboratory analysis. It presents only external symptoms, while internally the person remains largely healthy. Minor inflammation may be present but is difficult to classify as related to any specific disease. Advanced forms of psoriasis can be identified via biopsy results during later stages.

Unique Treatment Methods for Psoriasis

Since psoriasis cannot be completely cured, doctors focus on reducing flare-ups and eliminating visible symptoms. Specialists at the “Berezoviy Gai” sanatorium use a special form of comprehensive therapy tailored individually for each patient. To eliminate triggering factors, the following methods are applied:

• Galvanogly mud therapy;
• Immune system support with vitamin complexes;
• Laser-magnetic therapy;
• Individually selected medications;
• Cryotherapy.

A favorable psychological state plays an important role during treatment. For this reason, the "Berezoviy Gai" sanatorium provides optimal conditions for full recovery: peaceful atmosphere, fresh air, proper nutrition, and comfortable rooms. All these help guests return to normal life in the shortest possible time.