Seniors Must Know this about Plaque Psoriasis (Must See Causes and Ilumya)

Introduction

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects seniors, causing red, scaly patches on the skin. It is a non-contagious condition that often leads to discomfort and self-consciousness. In this article, we will explore the causes of plaque psoriasis and the treatment option called Ilumya.

Understanding Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis, affecting seniors more frequently. It is characterized by raised, red patches of skin covered with silvery scales. The exact cause of plaque psoriasis is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by an overactive immune system.

Possible Causes of Plaque Psoriasis

While the exact cause of plaque psoriasis is still uncertain, several factors have been identified that may contribute to its development:

• Genetics: Psoriasis tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
• Immune System: An abnormal immune response triggers the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to the formation of plaques.
• Environmental Triggers: Certain environmental factors such as stress, infections, and certain medications can exacerbate plaque psoriasis symptoms.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption have also been linked to an increased risk of developing plaque psoriasis.

Treatment Options for Plaque Psoriasis

While there is no cure for plaque psoriasis, several treatment options are available to manage the symptoms and improve seniors’ quality of life. Treatment plans are usually tailored to the individual’s specific needs and may include:

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are applied directly to the affected areas of the skin and include creams, ointments, and lotions. These treatments help reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and promote the shedding of scales. Common topical medications include corticosteroids, calcipotriene, and retinoids.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of natural or artificial ultraviolet light. This treatment option helps slow down the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation. Phototherapy can be done in a medical setting or using a home phototherapy unit under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Systemic Medications

Systemic medications are taken orally or via injections and work throughout the body. They are usually reserved for moderate to severe cases of plaque psoriasis that have not responded to other treatments. These medications target the immune system to reduce inflammation and suppress the overactive immune response.

Biologic Drugs

Biologic drugs are a newer class of medications that target specific parts of the immune system involved in plaque psoriasis. They are usually administered through injections and can provide significant relief for seniors with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. One such biologic drug is Ilumya.

Understanding Ilumya

Ilumya (tildrakizumab-asmn) is an FDA-approved biologic medication used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It works by specifically targeting the interleukin-23 (IL-23) protein, which plays a crucial role in the development of plaque psoriasis.

How Does Ilumya Work?

Ilumya blocks the IL-23 protein, which helps regulate the immune system’s response. By inhibiting IL-23, it reduces the inflammation and excessive cell growth associated with plaque psoriasis. The medication is administered as an injection under the skin and is typically given every 12 weeks after initial dosing.

Effectiveness and Safety

Clinical trials have shown that Ilumya is effective in significantly reducing the symptoms of plaque psoriasis and improving patients’ quality of life. It has demonstrated a long-term safety profile, with adverse events typically being mild to moderate and similar to other biologic medications.

Considerations for Seniors

Seniors considering Ilumya should consult with their healthcare provider to assess its suitability based on their overall health and any existing medical conditions. As with any medication, there may be potential side effects, drug interactions, and contraindications that need to be taken into account.

Conclusion

Plaque psoriasis can be a challenging condition for seniors, but there are effective treatment options available to manage its symptoms. Ilumya is one such biologic drug that specifically targets the underlying cause of plaque psoriasis, providing relief and improving the quality of life for seniors. If you or a loved one is suffering from plaque psoriasis, it is essential to seek medical advice and explore suitable treatment options to find relief.