Psoriasis

Psoriasis, an inherited disorder of the immune system, presents most commonly in the skin and joints but is also associated with cardiovascular, metabolic, and neuropsychiatric effects. Treatments include topical therapy for mild disease; phototherapy and oral therapy, such as retinoids and immunomodulating agents; and targeted biologic therapies that have revolutionized treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Primary care physicians should be aware of the systemic associations of psoriasis and the treatments available for this disorder.