Psoriasis is a condition that causes red, raised patches of skin that can be crusty and flaky. It is a non-contagious condition that affects around one in 50 people, mainly aged under 35-years-old. The severity varies from person to person.
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Psoriasis
What causes psoriasis?
It is caused by an overproduction of skin cells and, although it is thought to be triggered by the body’s immune system, the process is not fully understood. It can run in families but the genetic influence is unclear.
Psoriasis symptoms
Patches of skin become red, flaky and scaly and can cause itching or soreness. The most common variety is plaque psoriasis which normally appears on elbows, knees, scalp and lower back though it can appear anywhere on the body.
Psoriasis diagnosis
Some symptoms are mild but a GP will be able to tell by examining your skin and nails before referring you to a dermatologist.
Treatment options
There is no cure but there are treatments to alleviate itching and reduce inflammation but many people have to take different creams and emollients to find a combination that works for their particular condition. Ultraviolet therapies can be used to clear psoriasis and new medications proving to clear the condition in 80% of patients with moderate-to-severe conditions.
Dermatologists are skilled at defining topical or medication regimes and combination therapies that are effective at combatting psoriasis to alleviate the impact of itching and unsightly patches of skin.
Contact us for private psoriasis treatment
If you would like to know more about our psoriasis services and treatment options available then contact us today by phone on 0203 370 1026 or email [email protected].
Dermatology Clinic
Our London-based Dermatology Unit is led by the UK’s top dermatology specialists. We offer consultation, diagnosis and treatment of all types of skin conditions in clean, comfortable surroundings.
Patient information
Our Hospital is renowned for providing exemplary levels of care across more than 90 services. From orthopaedics, to urology, our private GP practice and Urgent Care Clinic, our services are led by some of London’s leading Consultants. For more information, and to find a service suitable for your care, find out more about the services that we offer.
Make an enquiry
If you have any questions relating to treatment options or pricing information, get in touch with us by filling out one of our contact boxes or giving us a call on 0203 370 1026.
Our Appointments Team have a dedicated and caring approach to finding you the earliest appointment possible with the best specialist.
If you are self-paying you don’t need a referral from your GP for a consultation. You can simply refer yourself* and book an appointment.
If you have health insurance (e.g. Bupa, Axa Health, Aviva), you will need to contact your insurer to get authorisation before any treatment, and in most cases you will also require a referral letter from your GP.
If you are not registered with a GP, we have an in-house private GP practice you can use. Alternatively, we can suggest the most appropriate course of action for you to take, given your location and individual circumstances.
*Please note – for investigations such as X-rays and MRIs, a referral will be required. However, we may be able to arrange this for you through our on-site private GP.
