Treatment of Psoriasis in Nail Psoriasis
Nail psoriasis represents a clinically distinct subset of psoriasis affecting the nail unit. When nails are involved, a targeted treatment strategy is needed, with outcomes tracked through validated scoring tools.
This protocol is indicated for patients with psoriasis presenting with nail psoriasis — a challenging manifestation that requires a treatment approach specifically directed at the nail unit rather than cutaneous plaques alone.
Treatment Approach
Light-based treatment modalities are among the interventions with evidence in the management of nail psoriasis.
Clinical Goal
Success is measured by meaningful improvement in the Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI) score, reflecting change in both nail bed and nail matrix involvement.
References
DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.04.042
PDL may be considered for nail psoriasis.
The pulsed dye laser (PDL) is effective for treatment of nail psoriasis.
Intense pulsed light (IPL) administered every 2 weeks for 6 months can be successful in treating nail psoriasis, with 71.2% improvement in the nail bed, 32.2% improvement in the matrix, and 82.4% improvement in total NAPSI score.
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