AAD issues care guidelines for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis

Schaumburg, Ill. - Following an extensive analysis of recent studies done on psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has released new care guidelines for managing the conditions.

The new psoriasis and psoriatic guidelines, published in the May issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, serve as recommendations for treating patients with mild to severe cases of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

In a statement issued by the academy, AAD President C. William Hanke, M.D., says, “As a result of the impartial analysis of the most current research, physicians now have evidence-based guidelines which will help enhance the quality of care for patients and, ultimately, their safety. The guidelines for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, which focus on the use of biologics, are the first phase of the academy’s efforts.”

The academy currently is working on the second phase of the guidelines, which will provide evidence-based advice for the management of psoriasis with topical, ultraviolet-light and systemic nonbiologic therapies.

“These guidelines should help further the understanding of the current psoriasis therapies and help enhance the overall health and quality of life of patients,” Dr. Hanke says in the AAD press release.

The guidelines can be accessed through the academy’s Web site at http://www.aad.org/pm/science/PsoriasisGuidelines.htm.