The ear is a part of the body that can be affected by psoriasis. Although the symptoms are identical to any other form of psoriasis, ear psoriasis can be particularly bothersome. Are there solutions to alleviate it? Elements of response in this article.
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- Ear Psoriasis: How to Alleviate It?
Ear Psoriasis: How to Alleviate It?
- Ear Psoriasis: A Daily Discomfort
- Calming Ear Psoriasis: Is it Possible?
- What routine should be adopted in case of ear psoriasis?
- Sources
Ear Psoriasis: A Daily Discomfort.
The psoriasis is a skin disease that affects a fairly high number of people. It can appear in anyone, at any age.
This skin disease is characterized by red, scaly patches that cover specific parts of the body. These can be a source of itching and irritation, with the intensity varying from one individual to another. They appear as a result of a skin inflammation caused by a failure of the immune system. T lymphocytes produce inflammatory molecules (cytokines Il-17, Il-22, TNF-alpha, among others). These stimulate the proliferation of keratinocytes. The renewal period of these cells, normally three weeks, then shortens to three days. This results in an accumulation of immature keratinocytes on the skin surface, increasing the thickness of the outer layer (the cornea). This is referred to as hyperkeratosis.
Ear psoriasis manifests itself just like any other form of classic psoriasis. It can appear solely on the lobe, or it can affect the pinna, the back, or even the inside of the ear. This is precisely what makes ear psoriasis particularly troublesome. The plaques are hard to reach, which complicates the act of scratching them for relief. Moreover, it becomes difficult, if not impossible, to wear earbuds, headphones, earplugs, or even a hearing aid. The scales that fall into the ear can even reach the eardrum and obstruct the auditory canal, which can lead to partial deafness.
Calming Ear Psoriasis: Is it Possible?
As of now, curing psoriasis is impossible. Indeed, there is no remedy that can completely eradicate the disease. However, certain methods can be used to alleviate symptoms. To limit the spread of inflammation, it is recommended to use a treatment containing dermocorticoid ingredients such as cortisone. Applied topically, they help soothe the skin by fighting inflammation. They inhibit the NF-kB transcription factor by activating the transcription of the IkB gene, giving them anti-inflammatory effects. Dermocorticoids are available in the form of ointment, lotion, or cream.
To eliminate plaques and slow their progression and appearance, it is recommended to use treatments based on vitamin D derivatives. These vitamin D analogs, such as calcipotriol or calcitriol, are anti-proliferative, meaning they combat the excessive multiplication of certain skin cells. Therefore, they act against hyperkeratosis.
Phototherapy can also be considered for treating ear psoriasis. This is a method of treating skin conditions that uses ultraviolet rays. There are two types of phototherapy: PUVA therapy, which exposes the patient in a cabin to UVA rays, and the UVB phototherapy , which uses ultraviolet rays closer to those emitted by the sun.
What routine should be adopted in case of ear psoriasis?
To avoid further irritating the skin, it is preferable to use soap-free cleansing gels with a neutral pH that will not irritate the skin. As for the hair, a shampoo containing salicylic acid can be used twice a week alternately with a mild shampoo. Indeed, this active ingredient has keratolytic properties that help to remove dead skin cells. Hydration of the ears should not be neglected. For this, it is appropriate to use a moisturizing cream or lotion every day that will create a protective film on the skin surface and fight against flaking.
If you suffer from ear psoriasis, it is advisable not to use cotton swabs. These can push dead skin flakes towards the eardrum and promote the obstruction of the auditory canal.
Sources
LEBRUN-VIGNES B. & al. Dermocorticoïdes. Ann Dermatol Venereol (2004).
SAURAT J. & al. Psoriasis. Dermatologie et infections sexuellement transmissibles (2016).
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