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Does Cortisone Effectively Treat Guttate Psoriasis?
Question: Two weeks ago red, itchy patches appeared in isolated areas of my torso and groin. The red patches spread to my head, neck, back, shoulders, and limbs within days. The dermatologist diagnosed me with guttate psoriasis, and prescribed topical steroids such as Desoximetasone cream 0.25% to apply twice daily. I have changed my diet. Is over the counter, Cortizone 10, appropriate for the larger areas? The dermatologist suggested sunlight and/or tanning beds. I live in a rural area where UV light treatment isn't an option based on travel distance. What else can I do if I am not seeing results from the topical steroids alone? Second opinion?
Brief Answer:
Regarding guttate psoriasis
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Topical steroids are usually effective in treating guttate psoriasis.
Desoximetasone 0.25% cream or mometasone furoate 0.1 % cream/ointment may be used for this purpose. They are prescription steroids.
Cortisone or Cortisone cream is a very mild topical steroid (1% Hydrocortisone) and may not work that well in guttate psoriasis.
Apart from topical steroids, emollients form an important part of therapy for guttate psoriasis.
UV light/ Sunlight has a beneficial effect on guttate psoriasis and Narrow Band UVB phototherapy is an established mode of treatment in guttate psoriasis.
Oral antibiotics e.g erythromycin or penicillin group of drugs may also improve guttate psoriasis, especially that which follows or accompanies a streptococcal sore throat.
However, they are often used in combination with either topical steroids or Phototherapy.
Hope I have answered your query.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Kakkar S., Dermatologist
Regarding guttate psoriasis
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Topical steroids are usually effective in treating guttate psoriasis.
Desoximetasone 0.25% cream or mometasone furoate 0.1 % cream/ointment may be used for this purpose. They are prescription steroids.
Cortisone or Cortisone cream is a very mild topical steroid (1% Hydrocortisone) and may not work that well in guttate psoriasis.
Apart from topical steroids, emollients form an important part of therapy for guttate psoriasis.
UV light/ Sunlight has a beneficial effect on guttate psoriasis and Narrow Band UVB phototherapy is an established mode of treatment in guttate psoriasis.
Oral antibiotics e.g erythromycin or penicillin group of drugs may also improve guttate psoriasis, especially that which follows or accompanies a streptococcal sore throat.
However, they are often used in combination with either topical steroids or Phototherapy.
Hope I have answered your query.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Kakkar S., Dermatologist
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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