How Is Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Treated?

Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a group of illnesses that cause the skin to be constantly inflamed and scaled. Depending on the specific condition, a patient's entire body may be affected, or they may only experience symptoms on certain portions of the body. Some manifestations of pityriasis rubra pilaris also involve thickened skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, abnormalities in nail growth, and hair thinning. Individual manifestations of pityriasis rubra pilaris are differentiated based on the areas affected, other present conditions, and the age of the patient at symptom onset. Both adults and children can experience this condition.

It's important to note that since pityriasis rubra pilaris is a group of related illnesses, a treatment that works for one type may not work for another. Get familiar with the most common options now.

Topical Corticosteroids

One of the most common methods of treating pityriasis rubra pilaris is through topical corticosteroids. The body naturally produces hormones called corticosteroids in the adrenal glands. Corticosteroid medication is a synthetic version of the body's natural corticosteroid hormones. As such, the medication has the same effects as natural corticosteroids. Topical corticosteroids are medications applied directly to the skin, rather than ingested orally or administered intravenously. The medication uses powerful anti-inflammatory properties to counteract skin inflammation. In addition, the medication suppresses the immune system's response. Inflammation occurs when the immune system floods the skin with histamines because it believes the body is under attack. While some corticosteroids treat the entire body, topical medications affect only the patch of skin they are applied to.

Uncover more options for treating pityriasis rubra pilaris now.