Specialists committed to raising the bar in psoriasis treatment

60 international and regional experts from 10 countries across the region discussed new treatment options to improve the lives of patients suffering from the chronic skin disease, psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a highly visible, long-lasting skin disease affecting both men and women and is visible on the skin in the form of red scales that can sometimes be very itchy. Although there has been a great deal of research on psoriasis the exact causes are still unknown. There are a number of factors such as stress, changes in the weather that dry the skin and certain medications than can cause psoriasis to flare up. The prevalence of the disease varies from country to country, but the disease affects approximately 3 percent of the population in the UAE.

Prof. Mohamed El Saad El Rifaie, Conference Chairman and Professor of Dermatology, Cairo University Egypt, adds, "Psoriasis is a potentially serious and disabling chronic skin condition affecting our society. Increased awareness and education on the disease are key to improving the quality of life of psoriasis sufferers."

The meeting provided an updated clinical overview and examined the application of international guidelines to maximize treatment results. Dr Aaesha Al Qatami, Consultant Dermatologist, Ras Al Khaimah Hospital, UAE, adds, "The correct use of international guidelines can significantly improve the lives of patients by ensuring aggressive and sustained treatment.

Two cases studies on the experience of treating psoriasis in Bahrain and Kuwait offered best practice solutions and recommendations for implementation in regional markets.

Dr. Nidhal Khalifa, Consultant Dermatologist and Head of Dermatology Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Bahrain, adds, "Our experience in Bahrain confirms that consistent relief from painful symptoms and an improvement in the quality of life can be successfully achieved with the correct course of treatment. We have demonstrated excellent symptom relief with moderate to severe psoriasis patients following treatment with biological medications."