Psoriasis: Targets and Therapy (Nov 2020)
Optimal Management of Plaque Psoriasis in Adolescents: Current Perspectives
Abstract
Emmanuel MahéService De Dermatologie Et Médecine Vasculaire, Hôpital Victor Dupouy, Argenteuil 95100, FranceCorrespondence: Emmanuel Mahé Tel +33 134 232 628Fax +33 134 232 261Email [email protected]: The skin is at the interface between the body and its environment and is therefore at the center of adolescent concerns during this period of identity formation and increased awareness of body image issues, and stigmatization. Managing an adolescent with psoriasis involves managing the illness and the individual during their transition from being an older child to a young adult. In addition to ensuring that the patient adheres to treatments and is engaged with the therapeutic strategy, dermatologists may also need to manage issues linked to unspoken suffering or conflicts between the adolescent and their parents, who are often present during consultations. The impact of psoriasis on the social interactions, school life and sexuality of the patients, together with the influence of the internet and social networks, also have to be taken into account. In this review, we summarize the epidemiologic, clinical, and therapeutic data available on psoriasis in adolescents, and propose specific management strategies, adapted to the 21st century, for patients in this age group.Keywords: psoriasis, adolescent, treatment, biotherapies, acitretin, methotrexate, proactive treatment
