Psoriasis vulgaris: an evidence-based guide for primary care

Abstract

Psoriasis vulgaris is a chronic, sometimes debilitating, inflammatory disorder with multiple pathways of pathogenesis that can be associated with metabolic and cardiovascular disease. This article aims to be a comprehensive, literature-based review of the epidemiology, genetic factors, clinical diagnosis, treatments, and pharmacology for psoriasis as derived from articles published in PubMed. Levels of evidence and recommendations were made according to the strength of recommendation taxonomy. This article is divided into 2 sections: the first is clinical and diagnostic, the second is therapeutic. This review serves as a practical, evidence-based, and unbiased guide for primary care practitioners.

Keywords: Dermatology; Primary Health Care; Psoriasis; Skin Diseases.