TRATAMIENTO FARMACOLÓGICO Y FOTOTERAPIA PARA EL MANEJO DE PSORIASIS

Abstract

Psoriasis is characterized by plaques of reddened, symmetrical and well-defined skin, covered with silvery scales, with the possibility of fusion and extension, these lesions, accompanied by pruritus, may present partial desquamation in the center. This work aimed to conduct a comprehensive review of the updated scientific and medical literature to identify and describe the most common pharmacological therapies used in the treatment of psoriasis. The results showed that topical treatments for psoriasis, such as topical corticosteroids, vary in potency, from superpotency to low potency, the choice of the appropriate potency depends on the severity of the psoriasis and the specific location of the lesions. In the field of topical treatments for psoriasis, calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, stand out for blocking the activity of this enzyme crucial in the immune response and skin inflammation. Another therapeutic approach included vitamin D analogues, such as calcipotriol plus betamethasone, which, by binding to the vitamin D receptor, exert anti-inflammatory effects and regulate keratinocyte hyperproliferation. The introduction of biologic agents, such as Etanercept, Infliximab, Adalimumab, Efalizumab, and Golimumab, has marked a milestone in the treatment of psoriasis. On the other hand, phototherapy continues to be the only alternative for patients with limitations in tolerance to systemic drugs.