Psoriasis

What is psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin condition characterized by red, inflamed patches of skin covered with silvery scale. It occurs when immune signals accelerate the growth cycle of skin cells, causing new cells to accumulate on the skin surface more rapidly than normal.

This rapid skin turnover leads to the formation of thick plaques that may appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, or other areas of the body. Many individuals also experience itching, burning, or skin sensitivity.

Psoriasis is considered a systemic inflammatory condition and may also be associated with other health conditions such as psoriatic arthritis, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.

Why Psoriasis Develops

Psoriasis results from a complex interaction between immune signaling, genetics, and environmental triggers.

Immune system dysregulation

Immune cells release inflammatory signals that accelerate skin cell growth.

Rapid skin cell turnover

New skin cells reach the surface in days rather than weeks, leading to plaque formation.

Genetic susceptibility

Individuals with psoriasis often have a genetic predisposition to immune-mediated inflammation.

Systemic inflammation

Inflammatory pathways may affect not only the skin but also other body systems./p>

These processes contribute to the characteristic plaques and chronic inflammatory nature of psoriasis.

Common psoriasis triggers

Psoriasis symptoms often worsen when certain triggers activate inflammatory pathways.

Common triggers include:

• psychological stress
• infections such as strep throat
• skin injury or irritation
• certain medications
• smoking
• alcohol use
• cold or dry weather
• metabolic inflammation

Identifying individual triggers can help reduce flare frequency and improve long-term disease control.

Our Approach to Psoriasis Treatment

Dr. Larivee provides physician-led care for patients with chronic psoriasis. Rather than focusing solely on suppressing visible plaques, care focuses on identifying the biological factors contributing to systemic inflammation and immune activation.

Treatment plans are individualized based on psoriasis severity, prior treatment history, and overall health.

Approaches may include:

1.Clinical evaluation

Review of psoriasis history, triggers, and previous therapies.

2.Skin barrier and topical care

Strategies that support skin health and reduce irritation.

3.Inflammatory pathway support

Addressing immune and metabolic factors contributing to inflammation.

4.Targeted therapies

Use of dermatologic medications or integrative therapies when appropriate.

5.Long-term disease stability

Focus on reducing flare cycles and supporting durable skin control.

Who This Care Is Designed For

This care model may be appropriate for patients who:

• have chronic plaque psoriasis
• experience recurrent psoriasis flares
• have not achieved stable control with conventional episodic care
• want a physician-guided integrative dermatology approach
• are seeking a deeper understanding of the factors driving their condition

This practice focuses on chronic inflammatory skin disease and may not be appropriate for urgent dermatologic care.

Schedule an introductory consultation to discuss your skin concerns and determine whether our integrative dermatology approach is appropriate for your care.

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