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Psoriasis (cont.)

Is psoriasis curable?

No, psoriasis is not currently curable. However, it can go into remission and show no signs of disease. Ongoing research is actively making progress on finding better treatments and a possible cure in the future.

Is psoriasis contagious?

No. Research studies have not shown it to be contagious from person to person. You cannot catch it from anyone, and you cannot pass it to anyone else by skin-to-skin contact. You can directly touch someone with psoriasis every day and never catch the skin condition.

Can I pass psoriasis on to my children?

Yes, it is possible. Although psoriasis is not contagious from person to person, there is a known genetic tendency, and it may be inherited from parents to their children. It does tend to run in some families, and a family history is helpful in making the diagnosis.

What kind of doctor treats psoriasis?

Dermatologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of psoriasis, and rheumatologists specialize in the treatment of joint disorders and psoriatic arthritis. Many kinds of physicians may treat psoriasis, including dermatologists, family physicians, internal medicine physicians, rheumatologists, and other medical doctors. Some patients have also seen other allied health professionals such as acupuncturists, holistic practitioners, chiropractors, and nutritionists.

The American Academy of Dermatology and the National Psoriasis Foundation are excellent references to help find physicians who specialize in this disease. Not all dermatologists and rheumatologists treat psoriasis. The National Psoriasis Foundation has one of the most up-to-date databases of current psoriasis specialists.



Next: How is psoriasis treated? »

Psoriasis - Effective Treatments

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What kinds of treatments have been effective for your psoriasis?

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