Is it scalp psoriasis or something else? If it is scalp psoriasis what do I do about it? These questions and more are answered by leading dermatologist Dr. Ronald Prussick as we uncover what is scalp psoriasis.

Join host Corinne Rutkowski as she talks with dermatologist and Vice Chair of the NPF Medical Board, Dr. Ronald Prussick from Washington Dermatology Center in Rockville and Frederick, MD about scalp psoriasis compared to dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis or eczema, and how characteristics may differ, along with what treatments and actions are effective to address scalp psoriasis. 

This episode offers helpful insights and tips to address symptoms and care of scalp psoriasis. 

Timestamps:

·       (0:00) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered & guest welcome dermatologist Dr. Ronald Prussick.

·       (1:19) What is dandruff and key characteristics.

·       (2:28) Treatments for dandruff.

·       (3:28) What is seborrheic dermatitis and characteristics.  

·       (4:18) Treatment options for seborrheic dermatitis.

·       (7:04) How scalp psoriasis compares to dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis or eczema, and what are the key  differences.

·       (9:24) Why scalp psoriasis is a high impact site and how itching of  the scalp leads to Koebnerization.

·       (12:46) Prescription and over the counter treatment options for scalp psoriasis.

·       (18:11) Tips for using shampoos and applying treatments on the scalp.  

·       (24:08) Hair loss or alopecia with scalp psoriasis.

·       (25:22) Upcoming treatments for scalp psoriasis.

·       (27:38) Most important point to know about scalp psoriasis.

Key Takeaways:

·       Some skin diseases may be confused with scalp psoriasis, however psoriasis does have key characteristics which helps lead to a definitive diagnosis.

·       Scalp psoriasis is a high impact area meaning body surface area (BSA) is less than 10% however impact on quality of life is significant and is a factor in determining choice of treatment(s) whether prescription or over the counter.

·       Be aware of the risks for Koebnerization of the scalp and take precautions to minimize itching and scratching through application of treatments and care of the scalp.

Guest Bio:

Leading dermatologist Ronald Prussick, M.D., is Vice Chair of the Medical Board for the National Psoriasis Foundation and the Medical Director of Washington Dermatology Center in Rockville and Frederick, MD where he specializes in the treatment of psoriasis along with other diseases of the skin, hair, and nails using the latest technology and products. Dr. Prussick is also a Clinical Associate Professor in Dermatology at George Washington University in Washington, DC.  He has been published many times and frequently speaks at medical conferences across the country and internationally including providing podcast episodes, such as on Psound Bytes addressing facts about nutrition and psoriasis in episode #196 “Facts About Nutrition, Diets and Psoriatic Disease”.  Dr. Prussick has been voted one of the top doctors by the Washingtonian Magazine time after time and has been repeatedly named one of America’s Top Physicians by the Consumers Research Council.

Resources:

Ø  Medicated Psoriasis Shampoos Your Scalp Will Love 

Ø  To find a dermatologist if needed: Patient Navigation Center

Ø  NPF Seal of Recognition Product Directory