Papulosquamous Disorders

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By Dr John Morrison

Papulosquamous disorders are a collection of skin infections with common symptoms like papules and scales. In some cases only papules are present whereas in some cases scales are present but in most of the cases scaly papules are present. Psoriasis and Lichen Planus are commonly observed Papulosquamous disorders.

It is a special condition where the growth of skin cells increases rapidly. This effect the whole life cycle of skin cells and patients suffer from unbearable itching sensation and pain. The infected area is usually red in color and dry. Doctors usually try to stop the rapid growth of skin cells and one must note that there is no complete cure for this disease. Unlike other skin diseases, this one is long-lasting i.e. users suffering from this disease for more than a decade were also there.

Symptoms of Papulosquamous Disorders

Almost all the Papulosquamous disorders have some common symptoms. Here is the list of symptoms that are commonly observed patients:

  • Red colored paths on skin (can be seen in psoriasis patients also).
  • Itching and soreness (This is common in almost all the skin infections).
  • Small cracks on skin and bleeding in case of scratching (Psoriasis symptom).
  • Scaling spots.
  • Stiff joints (This is observed in rare cases but common in Psoriasis patients).

Dermatologist Consultation

In case of any Papulosquamous disorder, it is better to consult doctor immediately as early diagnosis can help in preventing the spreading of the disease to other areas. It is better to consult the doctor immediately if:

  • You are too much worried about the color changes on your skin.
  • These skin problems are troubling you in doing your daily activities.
  • Itching sensation is unbearable and the papules/scales are expanding.
  • Unbearable pain is there along with some changes in skin color.
  • The nuisance because of your skin condition is increasing and public appearance is becoming difficult.

Causes of Papulosquamous Disorders

The exact causes for Papulosquamous disorders are not yet known. Though doctors came for a conclusion in case of some skin diseases, they are yet to come to a single conclusion in many disorders. Here are some of the causes that are causing Papulosquamous disorders.

  • Malfunction of T-Lymphocyte or T cells which attack the healthy skin cells is the main cause for Psoriasis. Healthy skin cells build up quickly than the normal rate resulting in excess skin cell growth.
  • In the opinion of doctors, severe sun burns can lead to Papulosquamous disorders.
  • Unhealthy habits like smoking, alcohol consumption etc. can also improve the chances of getting these disorders.
  • Infection (strep throat) and injuries, bug bites can also cause skin infections.
  • Certain medications can also trigger allergies and if you observe papules and scales after taking some medicines, it is better to consult the doctor immediately.

Other Causes

  • If one of your parents is suffering from Psoriasis, you are more prone to Psoriasis when compared to other persons whose family’s medical history is clean.
  • If you are suffering from HIV or other deadly diseases i.e. your immune system is compromised, you are more prone to Papulosquamous disorders.
  • Other reasons like stress, obesity etc. can also increase the changes of getting Papulosquamous disorders.

Complications of Papulosquamous Disorders

If you are suffering from Papulosquamous disorders, you are more prone to these diseases.

  • Psoriatic arthritis – It is a painful condition in which some joints won’t function. This is commonly observed in Psoriasis patients.
  • Conjunctivitis, blepharitis and other eye related problems can also occur.
  • Diabetes (Type 2) and Blood Pressure.
  • The risk of Heart Attack is more in case of patients suffering from Papulosquamous disorders.

Apart from these physical problems, patients suffering from Papulosquamous disorders also suffer from mental trauma. This results in depression and social isolation. Decrease in confidence levels, low self-esteem etc. can also been in Papulosquamous disorder patients.

Tests and Diagnosis of Papulosquamous Disorders

Physical examination itself is more than sufficient to diagnose skin infections correctly. Just by seeing the infected region, experienced doctors can easily know the disease. If the medical expert is in somewhat confusion, he may prefer skin biopsy. However, this method is used in rarest of the rare occasions. Some common Papulosquamous disorders are:

  • Lichen Planus: This itchy skin condition can be easily diagnosed as it has lesions (bumps).
  • Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): Circular (in general) itchy rashes caused by Fungi.
  • Pityriasis Rosea: This itching skin disorder starts at one place and slowly expands from that place. Its appearance is similar to drooping pine tree.
  • Seborrheic Dermatitis: Red, itching patches are seen and oily body parts are more prone to this infection.
  • Psoriasis: Over growth of skin cells resulting in painful, dry, patchy skin cracks.

Treatment of Papulosquamous Disorders

Some Papulosquamous disorders are completely curable where as some is treatable but not 100% curable. Whatever the skin-disease may be, doctors usually try to stop the Papulosquamous disorders from spreading to other parts of the body. Then the real treatment starts. In general, Papulosquamous disorders are treated in following ways:

  • Topical Creams: Doctors recommend using strong anti-inflammatory topical creams to subside the itching sensation. Medicated foams, corticosteroid ointments etc. come under this category only. If the infection is not severe, applying topical creams alone is sufficient for curing the infection completely.
  • Light therapy: Exposing the skin to controlled amounts of UVA or UVB lights; this treatment is effective in Psoriasis patients. Doctors check for improvement in skin conditions session after session.
  • Oral or injected medications: Some tablets and/or syrups are also prescribed by doctors to treat skin conditions. If the condition is so severe, they directly inject the medicines in the infected area for quick results. Etanercept, infliximab etc. come under this category.

Doctors usually start the treatment with mild dosages and if the infection is not responding, they increase the dosages. Most of the Papulosquamous disorders are treatable and patients won’t face any long term problems.

Get complete information from your doctor and know completely about that particular skin disorder. Making some changes in your lifestyle can immensely help in quick recovery. Try to get help from support groups, friends, family members, colleagues etc. for speedy recovery.

 

References

http://www.acpmedicine.com/abstracts/sam/med0202.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papulosquamous_disorder

http://www.medicinenet.com/psoriasis/article.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psoriasis

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/basics/coping-support/con-20030838