At Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of skin care—head to toe. In an effort to offer our patients both the convenience and comfort of a large, multi-functional practice as well as the medical benefits of specialized physicians, we’re structured as one practice with nine unique specialty centers. To help our patients learn more about all we have to offer, we’re highlighting one of our specialty centers each month in our blog, and this September, the spotlight is on our Psoriasis Center.

Psoriasis is a chronic condition which, in its most common form, causes patches of skin to be dry, itchy, and inflamed, with white scales on top. Though the symptoms are most visible on the skin, psoriasis is actually an immune condition which causes skin cells to reproduce at up to ten times the normal rate. Because new skin cells are being generated so quickly, the body is shedding the old skin at a rapid pace, leading to these symptomatic patches, called “plaques.” While the exact cause of psoriasis has not been found, it appears to be a genetically-linked, but it may actually develop due to unique triggers like stress or illness, which vary from patient to patient.

What is the Dermatology Associates of Atlanta Psoriasis Center?

While there is no known cure for psoriasis, the symptoms can be effectively managed using a variety of treatment options—and that’s where our Psoriasis Center comes in. Our board-certified dermatologists, physician assistants, and medical technicians have a wealth of experience in treating psoriasis, and have long been on the cutting edge of the latest medical advancements. We can evaluate each patient’s condition and develop a treatment plan based on which of the five subtypes of psoriasis they have (plaque psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis), as well as the severity and persistence of their symptoms.

What services are offered at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s Psoriasis Center?

Each psoriasis patient is unique, so our providers offer every treatment option available in order to design the ideal solution. For those with milder psoriasis, prescription topical medications may offer relief from their symptoms. For others, oral or injectable medications may be a more effective solution. The “biologic” revolution of the 21^st century has led to ability to deliver clear or almost clear results to nearly everyone. Phototherapy, in the form of a light box or with a unique laser known as the PHAROS EX-308 Excimer Laser, can also be highly effective. The Excimer laser has the added benefit of only treating the psoriasis-affected areas. Using ultraviolet (UVA or UVB) light in a highly controlled and precise way to slow the development of new skin cells, we can specifically target the psoriasis plaques without damaging healthy skin. These phototherapy treatments are brief and painless, and they allow most patients to experience several months of remission after a series of sessions. This highly advanced method can even treat particularly difficult areas, like the hands, feet, knees, elbows, and even the scalp.

Psoriasis can be a particularly stressful condition because the symptoms are so outwardly visible. But thanks to modern medicine as well as the providers at DAA who have dedicated themselves to the field, long-term symptom management is possible and can allow you to live your life without the daily self-consciousness of untreated psoriasis. To discuss your condition and how we can help, schedule an appointment at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta. Or, for more information about psoriasis as well as other areas of general and cosmetic dermatology, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. Plus, don’t forget to vote for us in Best Self’s Best of Atlanta contest for Best Dermatologist!