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Psoriasis
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Psoriasis Research
Significant progress has been made in understanding the inheritance of psoriasis. A number of genes involved in psoriasis are already known or suspected. In a multifactor disease (involving genes, environment, and other factors), variations in one or more genes may produce a greater likelihood of getting the disease. Researchers are continuing to study the genetic aspects of psoriasis. Since discovering that inflammation in psoriasis is triggered by T cells, researchers have been studying new treatments that quiet immune system reactions in the skin. Among these are treatments that block the activity of T cells or block cytokines (proteins that promote inflammation). Several of these drugs are awaiting approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Advances in laser technology are making it possible for doctors to experiment with laser light treatment of localized plaques. An ultraviolet B (UVB) laser was recently tested in a study that was conducted at several medical centers. Although improvements in the skin were noted, this treatment is not without possible side effects. In some patients, the skin became inflamed, blistered, or discolored following treatment.
References:
1) National Women's Health Information Center (NWHIC) - May 2008 - www.4woman.gov
2) U.S. Food and Drug Administration - FDA Talk Paper - January 2003 - www.fda.gov
3) U.S. Food and Drug Administration - FDA Consumer Magazine - September - October 2004 - www.fda.gov
4) National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) - Information Clearinghouse - National Institutes of Health - May 2003 - www.niams.nih.gov
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