A male client with psoriasis visits the dermatology clinic.
When inspecting the affected areas, the nurse expects to see which type of secondary lesion?- A. Scale
- B. Crust
- C. Ulcer
- D. Scar
The correct answer is: A- Scale
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by patches of thick, red, scaly skin. The primary lesions in psoriasis are plaques, which are raised, inflamed patches of skin. The secondary lesions that often develop are:
- Scales: These are flaky patches of skin that form on top of the plaques. They are often silvery or white in color.
- Crusts: These are hardened, dried-out scales that can form on top of the plaques.
- Fissures: These are painful cracks in the skin that can develop in severe cases of psoriasis.
- Erythema: This is redness of the skin.
While crusts can sometimes form in psoriasis, the most common secondary lesion is scales.
Psoriasis: Understanding the Condition and Its Secondary Lesions
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing it to become inflamed, thickened, and covered in silvery scales. While the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, it is believed to be due to an overactive immune system.
Primary and Secondary Lesions:
The primary lesions in psoriasis are plaques, which are raised, inflamed patches of skin. These plaques are often covered in scales, which are flaky patches of skin that can be silvery or white in color.
Secondary lesions can develop in psoriasis as a result of scratching, picking, or infection. These secondary lesions may include:
- Crusts: These are hardened, dried-out scales that can form on top of the plaques.
- Fissures: These are painful cracks in the skin that can develop in severe cases of psoriasis.
- Erythema: This is redness of the skin.
- Excoriation: This is damage to the skin caused by scratching.
- Hyperkeratosis: This is thickening of the outermost layer of the skin.
- Koebner phenomenon: This is the development of new psoriasis lesions at sites of injury.
Factors that can Worsen Psoriasis:
Several factors can worsen psoriasis, including:
- Stress: Emotional stress can trigger or worsen psoriasis flare-ups.
- Injuries: Injuries to the skin can cause new psoriasis lesions to develop.
- Infections: Infections, such as strep throat or tonsillitis, can trigger psoriasis flare-ups.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as beta-blockers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can worsen psoriasis.
- Weather: Dry weather can worsen psoriasis symptoms, while warm, humid weather may improve them.
Treatment for Psoriasis:
While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are several treatments available to help manage the symptoms. These may include:
- Topical medications: These are creams or ointments that are applied directly to the affected skin.
- Light therapy: This involves exposing the affected skin to ultraviolet light.
- Systemic medications: These are oral or injectable medications that work to suppress the immune system.
It is important to see a dermatologist if you have any concerns about psoriasis. A dermatologist can diagnose the condition and recommend the best treatment for you.