Psoriasis
Dermatology · ~4% of blueprint- Pathophysiology
- Immune-mediated (T-cell) keratinocyte hyperproliferation → thick scaly plaques.
- Signs & Symptoms
- Well-demarcated erythematous plaques with silvery scale on extensor surfaces/scalp; nail pitting.
- Gold Standard Diagnosis
- Clinical; biopsy if unclear (Munro microabscesses).
- First-line Treatment
- Topical corticosteroids + vitamin D analogs; phototherapy; biologics for severe disease.
Drug cardsTriamcinolone (Topical Corticosteroid)
High-Yield Pearl
Extensor plaques with silvery scale + nail pitting = psoriasis; Auspitz sign = pinpoint bleeding on scale removal.
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Immunology & Genetics
Sources
Reviewed September 2026- Psoriasis clinical guideline (AAD-NPF 2019-2021 series highlights) — American Academy of Dermatology / National Psoriasis Foundation, 2026
- Management of Adult Psoriasis with Topicals — AAD Guideline Clinical Pathway (May 2023 update) — American Academy of Dermatology, 2023
- StatPearls: Psoriasis — StatPearls Publishing, 2026
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