Leah Belazarian1. 1. University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA. Belazl01@ummhc.org
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Psoriasis is an important disorder in the adolescent population and has a tremendous physical and psychological impact on patients. It is important to understand the genetics, various clinical presentations, comorbidities, and treatment options associated with psoriasis. RECENT FINDINGS: The human leukocyte antigen-C gene likely contains a susceptibility locus for psoriasis. Cytokines interleukin-12 and interleukin-23 have been implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis as well. Psoriasis is likely associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction, metabolic syndrome, Crohn's disease, and depression; it is difficult to assess the implications in the adolescent population. SUMMARY: Psoriasis is not rare in the adolescent population. It is important for physicians to be aware of the different clinical presentations as well as the spectrum of treatment options that are available.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Psoriasis is an important disorder in the adolescent population and has a tremendous physical and psychological impact on patients. It is important to understand the genetics, various clinical presentations, comorbidities, and treatment options associated with psoriasis. RECENT FINDINGS: The human leukocyte antigen-C gene likely contains a susceptibility locus for psoriasis. Cytokines interleukin-12 and interleukin-23 have been implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis as well. Psoriasis is likely associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction, metabolic syndrome, Crohn's disease, and depression; it is difficult to assess the implications in the adolescent population. SUMMARY:Psoriasis is not rare in the adolescent population. It is important for physicians to be aware of the different clinical presentations as well as the spectrum of treatment options that are available.