Fast Five Quiz: Severe Psoriasis

Figure 1. Severe psoriasis

Combining objective and subjective measures is required to determine the severity of psoriasis. Objective measures include BSA involvement, disease location, symptoms, and presence of psoriatic arthritis. Subjective measures include the physical, financial, and emotional impact of the disease on the patient. Generally, more than 10% of the body is affected in severe psoriasis; however, when visible areas (such as the face, scalp, hands, and nails) are involved, or when severe symptoms (such as itching) are not properly controlled by topical treatments, systemic therapy may be necessary, regardless of BSA involvement.

Learn more about the treatment implications of psoriasis severity.

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Cite this: Dirk M. Elston, William D. James. Fast Five Quiz: Severe Psoriasis - Medscape - Dec 20, 2021.