Topical therapies for localized psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin with pronounced physical and psychosocial implications. This common condition affects 1% to 2% of the US population and is encountered frequently by nondermatologists and dermatologists. Fortunately, most patients have limited psoriasis, involving less than 5 % of their body surface area. Although no cure is available, several topical therapies can minimize the disease in such patients. This article reviews the topical medications currently available for the treatment of psoriasis and provides an approach to patients with localized disease.