Glossary of Psoriasis Terms

The Goeckerman Regimen was a popular inpatient treatment for psoriasis and is still sometimes used as an outpatient treatment in some psoriasis day-treatment centers.

The Ingram method for treating psoriasis utilizes anthralin, coal tar, and ultraviolet light in concert for clearing of psoriasis.

Impetigo Herpetiformis is the name given to pustular psoriasis occuring in pregnancy

Treatments that are taken internally to treat psoriasis patients are called "systemic agents" in contrast to those which are applied to the skin which are termed "topical treatments."

Retinoids are vitamin A-derived drugs for use in treating skin diseases.

Interleukins are chemicals produced by while blood cells to modulate inflammation and the immune response.

Psoriasis of skin folds such as the armpits is termed inverse psoriasis. It has a different appearance than more typical psoriasis of the elbows and knees

Exfoliative erythroderma is a condition where the entire skin turns brigth red and becomes scaly. Psoriasis is the most common cause of this condition.

Plaque-Type Psoriasis is the most common form of the disease. Red scaly plaques are typically found on the elbows and knees.

Pustular Psoriasis is a severe form of psoriasis which may require hospitalization or the use of strong systemic medications

Biologic therapies are cutting edge designer protein molecules designed to interact with white blood cells and related inflammatory signals in order to reduce their activity in psoriasis and other diseases.

TNF alpha is a natural compound our bodies use to boost the immune system. It is increased in times of infection or when fighting cancer. Excess TNF alpha is seen in inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and psoriasis.

HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigens) are cell-surface markers, some of which are associated with various autoimmune diseases. These markers are also critical in matching organ transplant donors to their recipients.