Kim Kardashian Diagnosed with Psoriasis, an Incurable Skin Condition

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(Free-Press-Release.com) July 25, 2011 -- Reality television star, Kim Kardashian is the latest celebrity to be diagnosed with Psoriasis, a chronic, inflammatory skin disease. The condition, which is controllable but not curable, can be itchy and painful and often presents as thick, red, scaly patches typically located on the elbows, knees, scalp and other areas of the body. Lee-Ann Rimes, Jerry Mathers and Phil Mickelson are other celebrities that also suffer from this condition.

A recent study* revealed that 94% of sufferers said the disease affected their overall quality of life and 81% said that their work, school and leisure activities have been significantly affected; this is greater than the effect of diabetes. Approximately 1 in 30 Canadians are diagnosed with psoriasis. Sufferers also have higher rates of depression and suicide. Despite this, up to 80% of sufferers do not seek medical treatment.

Medical experts now know that psoriasis can no longer be considered exclusively a skin disease. In addition to the psychological impact it has, there is an increased risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.

The cause of psoriasis has yet to be clearly defined but we know that there is a genetic component to it and patients have to be genetically predisposed to developing the disease. An environmental trigger such as physical trauma to the skin, strep throat infection, medications, stress, or cigarette smoking can then initiate the first presentation or flares of the disease.

Dr. Davindra Singh, Founder and Lead Dermatologist at AvantDerm says, “There are a variety of treatment options available and patients must work with their physicians to find the right treatment for them. Psoriasis can be treated with creams and ointments, ultraviolet light therapy, medications taken orally and the newer injectable, biological agents. Dermatologists are experts at using all of these treatments and can individualize the approach for each patient. Given the other risks associated with psoriasis, it is important that all physicians involved in the patient’s care be informed and work together to control the additional disease burden associated with psoriasis”.

*Source: The Psoriasis Education Program

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