| Psoriasis is a relatively common condition that affects 2 to
3 per cent of the population. It can have a profound psychological and
physical
impact upon the sufferer. The word psoriasis comes from the Greek word
psora, which means “to itch”, a rather curious origin given
that most textbooks on psoriasis suggest that the condition does not
itch — a view which is generally not shared by many sufferers.
This book, now in its second edition, has a structured and highly readable
format. Each of the 10 chapters consists of a series of questions followed
by answers which have been provided by the authors. The book begins with
an introduction to the condition that helps to dispel some of the myths
which have grown up around the disease. Psoriasis is not contagious or
related to diet and is certainly not an allergic condition. However,
there is a genetic component to the disease, which means that children
whose parents have the condition might inherit it.
Psoriasis can exist in several different forms and the second chapter
describes each of these in a clear and succinct manner. One criticism
I would make about this section is the lack of any colour plates or illustrations
which would be of benefit to any pharmacists wishing to learn how to
recognise the various forms of the disease. The third chapter discusses
an important aspect of the disease, namely, the factors which can trigger
or exacerbate the condition. Pharmacists would be wise to note the range
of medicines that can worsen a patient’s psoriasis.
Chapters 4 and 5 would probably be of greatest interest to pharmacists
since both describe treatments comprehensively. The authors point to
a survey of psoriasis sufferers which revealed that 80 per cent did not
consult a GP about their condition over a period of a year. This provides
pharmacists with an excellent opportunity to take on an active role in
helping to treat patients with this condition. Chapter 5 discusses second-line
treatments for psoriasis such as light therapy, methotrexate and ciclosporin,
as well as treatments for psoriatic arthropathy. In chapter 6, the authors
consider the role of complementary therapies such as aromatherapy, Chinese
herbs and the value of visits to the Dead Sea.
In chapter 8 the psychological impact of the disease and impact on friends
and family are considered in some detail. This chapter reveals how psoriasis
is, for many sufferers, much more than just a cosmetic problem. It affects
personal relationships, and feelings of embarrassment and isolation are
experienced by many sufferers.
The book finishes with a useful glossary and three appendices listing
contact details for groups such as the Psoriasis Association, publications
for patients and health care professionals, and emollients available
over the counter and their relative greasiness and cost.
Overall, I think that this book is well laid out and information can
be easily accessed. The authors clearly have a great deal of practical
knowledge about psoriasis and I would have no hesitation in recommending
the book to pharmacists who wish to take a more proactive role in helping
patients with psoriasis get the best out of their treatments.
Rod Tucker (a pharmacist in Hull with a special interest in dermatology)
|
The
Pharmaceutical Journal