Benjamin S Daniel1. 1. MBBS, MMed (Clin Epi), BA, BCom, FACD, Consultant Dermatologist, Department of Dermatology, St George Hospital NSW and St Vincent@s Hospital, Vic.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a common immune-mediated skin condition that affects at least 2% of the Australian population. Though psoriasis was often considered a cutaneous condition alone, more recent literature has shown other organ involvement. These comorbidities may be missed unless specifically looked for. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to outline the well-recognised comorbidities associated with psoriasis to facilitate a discussion for general practitioners (GPs) to have with their patients about lifestyle changes, the need to screen for other diseases and management of comorbidities. DISCUSSION: GPs are in a prime position to screen, diagnose and manage comorbidities in a patient with psoriasis. GPs have a broad understanding of and exposure to general medicine and are in a privileged position of seeing many patients with psoriasis within the spectrum of the disease.
BACKGROUND:Psoriasis is a common immune-mediated skin condition that affects at least 2% of the Australian population. Though psoriasis was often considered a cutaneous condition alone, more recent literature has shown other organ involvement. These comorbidities may be missed unless specifically looked for. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to outline the well-recognised comorbidities associated with psoriasis to facilitate a discussion for general practitioners (GPs) to have with their patients about lifestyle changes, the need to screen for other diseases and management of comorbidities. DISCUSSION: GPs are in a prime position to screen, diagnose and manage comorbidities in a patient with psoriasis. GPs have a broad understanding of and exposure to general medicine and are in a privileged position of seeing many patients with psoriasis within the spectrum of the disease.