Conclusion
The nurse in general practice is likely to frequently
see patients seeking help for the common condition
of psoriasis. The diagnosis can usually be made on
a clinical basis from the presenting signs and the
finding of other common manifestations of the
condition such as changes in the nails or scalp, or
lesions at specific sites such as the knees or elbows.
Initial topical treatment can usually be started, but
referral would be necessary for those in whom there
is doubt about the diagnosis, who fail to respond to
treatment, where phototherapy may be indicated, if
psoriatic arthritis is suspected or if urgent hospital
admission may be required as in generalised
pustulosis or erythroderma.