Top Manhattan Dermatologist Reflects on Possible New Treatment for Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
NEW YORK, Sept. 25, 2017 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Dr. Susan Bard is a well-known dermatologist in Manhattan, treating many different skin conditions including chronic plaque psoriasis, which is just one of seven different types.
"Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can be consistently present or will flare up periodically" explained Dr. Bard. "Unfortunately, it's also one of the most misunderstood skin disorders."
As this condition affects more than 6 million Americans, Dr. Bard was interested to learn about a possible new treatment. This treatment is an antibody which only targets a very specific immune system pathway involved in the development of psoriasis. Treatment which has reached phase 3 trials was shown to be effective in patients with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis with less side effects as it only affects a selected part of the inflammatory pathway.
During the trials, which were conducted in several countries, patients typically began the study with 30% of their body affected by psoriasis but some three months later, 65% had skin that was clear or nearly clear. This is a 75% improvement, while fewer than 10% of those given a placebo showed such significant improvement. Although these results are important, it could be that 12 weeks is too soon to fully assess the efficacy of treatment as it is possible patients would continue to further improve.
"These clinical trials provide further hope for patients suffering with chronic plaque psoriasis" said Dr. Bard. "Over the past few years researchers have worked hard to refine treatments for psoriasis."
With plaque psoriasis, skin becomes inflamed and is covered with silvery or white scales. Patches typically develop on the scalp (scalp psoriasis), lower back or on the elbows and knees and can itch and may even be painful.
"Genetics is one factor in the development of psoriasis with approximately 8% of people diagnosed having a family member with the condition. Certain environmental triggers such as stress, infections or medications are known to exacerbate the condition or provoke flares. Psoriasis is a symptom of immune system dysfunction. This is why psoriasis should always be evaluated by a physician. Even if the skin symptoms aren't that bad, there is a possibility that the chronic inflammation may be harming other organs or joints," according to Bard.
Typical treatments for psoriasis include topical steroid-based and non- steroidal creams, light therapy, oral anti-inflammatories, systemic immunosuppressants and injectable biologics.
About Dr. Susan Bard
A board-certified general and procedural dermatologist with the American Board of Dermatology, Dr. Susan Bard received her medical degree from the State University of New York-Downstate. Dr. Bard graduated top of her class and was elected to the prestigious national medical honour society, Alpha Omega Alpha. Upon graduating from medical school, Dr. Bard completed an internship in internal medicine at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City and a dermatology and cutaneous surgery residency at the University of Miami. While being exceptionally well-qualified, Dr. Bard always takes the time to set her patients at ease, combining the most sophisticated techniques with warmth and compassion.Dr. Susan Bard is a well-known dermatologist in Manhattan, treating many different skin conditions including chronic plaque psoriasis, which is just one of seven different types.
Contact
Dr. Susan Bard (Midtown NYC)Manhattan Dermatology Specialists51 East 25th Street, Ste 411New York, NY 10010(212) 889-2402
https://www.manhattandermatologistsnyc.com/
Dr. Susan Bard (Upper East Side NYC)
Manhattan Dermatology Specialists
983 Park Ave, Ste 1D1New York, NY 10028(212) 427-8750
https://www.manhattandermatologistsnyc.com/
Source:
http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)31279-5/fulltext
Media Contact: Susan Bard, Manhattan Dermatology Specialists, (212) 889-2402, help@manhattandermatologistsnyc.com
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SOURCE Manhattan Dermatology Specialists
