Psoriasis treatment at Spire Harpenden Hospital

Psoriasis is a skin condition that tends to flare up from time to time. It causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin. Treatment with various creams or ointments can often clear or reduce patches of psoriasis. Affected patches are usually found around the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back but can appear anywhere on your body. Psoriasis is not due to an infection, it is not contagious or cancerous.

Psoriasis is caused by an acceleration of the body’s production of skin cells. In most individuals, the process of replacing skin cells takes between three and four months but in cases of psoriasis, this is speeded up to as little as every three days. This results in a build-up of skin cells, giving a ‘patchy’ appearance to the skin.

Psoriasis can start at any age. The severity of the condition varies from person to person from a minor irritation to a condition that affects an individual’s quality of life. Although it may come and go, unfortunately once you develop psoriasis it tends to be with you through life.

The causes of psoriasis are not fully understood. It is generally considered a genetic disease which can be triggered or influenced by environmental factors. In most people who have psoriasis, there is no apparent reason why a flare-up develops at any given time. However, in some people, psoriasis is more likely to flare up in certain situations.

Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.

All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals.

Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.

You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.

We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.

We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.

For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.

Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.

If you think you may suffer from psoriasis, you should contact your GP who can usually diagnose the condition based on the appearance of your skin. If your condition is difficult to diagnose or relatively severe, your GP may refer you to a consultant dermatologist.

Whilst there is no cure for this condition your GP or consultant dermatologist may be able to help you reduce the symptoms:

• Vitamin D ointment or topical steroid-based ointments applied to the affected area
• Phototherapy - exposing your skin to certain types of ultraviolet light.
• Systemic treatments - oral or injected medicines that work throughout the whole body.

Even after you’ve left hospital, we’re still looking after you every step of the way. After treatment, typically our consultants will want to see you 6-12 weeks after your consultation to see how you are doing. ​

We are committed to delivering excellent individual care and customer service across our network of hospitals, clinics and specialist care centres around the UK. Our dedicated and highly trained team aim to achieve consistently excellent results. For us it's more than just treating patients, it's about looking after people.

Important to note

The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.