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Psoriasis Specialist

La Peau Dermatology

Zaina Rashid, DO, FAOCD, FAAD

Mohs Skin Cancer Surgeon & Dermatologist located in Mesa, AZ

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that can cause unsightly patches of scaly, flaky, itchy skin. At La Peau Dermatology in Mesa, AZ, Dr. Zaina Rashid offers the most advanced psoriasis treatment options for patients at La Peau Dermatology, helping to relieve symptoms while reducing the frequency of flare ups. She serves patients from Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale, Gilbert Scottsdale, Peoria, and Tempe.

Psoriasis Q & A

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disease that develops when new skin cells form and migrate to the skin's surface much more rapidly than normal, causing a buildup of cells that form flaky, scaly patches called plaques. In normal, healthy skin, the skin cell renewal process takes about a month - from the formation of the new cells in the deep layers of tissue to the time those cells migrate to the surface to replace old, dead or damaged cells. In psoriatic skin, the renewal process takes just a few days to complete, which means skin cells on the surface don't have a chance to shed or slough off before the new cells reach the surface. Although the specific cause of psoriasis isn't known, most researchers agree the condition develops when the immune system malfunctions and causes skin cells to grow at an abnormally rapid rate. People with a family history of psoriasis are also more likely to have the disease.

What Are The Symptoms of Psoriasis?

The most common symptom of psoriasis is plaque formation. These raised patches of flaky or scaly skin may appear pinkish, brownish or shiny compared to surrounding skin, and they often itch, weeping or even bleeding when rubbed or scratched. Psoriasis can also cause crusting in affected areas, especially in the scalp. People with severe psoriasis may have pitting or discoloration in their fingernails or toenails, and some patients will develop psoriatic arthritis that causes inflammation and aching in the joints. Plaques can occur nearly anywhere on the body, and symptoms can become worse after prolonged sun exposure, following an injury to the skin, or when irritated by detergents or other agents. Psoriasis is not contagious.

What Treatments Are Available For Psoriasis?

Psoriasis cannot be cured, but it can be managed with routine doctor's visits and through medication or other treatments. Once the diagnosis of psoriasis has been confirmed, treatment options may include topical creams and lotions, oral medications, or light or laser therapy. Keeping the skin moisturized and avoiding irritating soaps and detergents can help reduce itchiness.

Accepted Insurance Providers

Our medical practice works closely with numerous insurance carriers to ensure that our patients get the care that they need and deserve. Our office staff is highly experienced in navigating the pitfalls of insurance forms and are only too happy to use their expertise on our patients' behalf. Click here for more information on accepted insurance. If you have any questions or do not see your insurance carrier listed, you can contact our office directly.

  Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield
Aetna
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Anthem Blue Cross
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Arizona Foundation for Medical Care
Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield
Banner Health
BCBS
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Choice Care Network
Cigna
GeoBlue
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
Humana
Mercy Care