Interview dermatologue psoriasis génital.

Interview with Dr. AMODE: "Let's Talk About Genital Psoriasis."

For Typology, Dr. AMODE, a dermatologist and venereologist based in Paris, France, responded to our questions about inverse genital psoriasis. Discover his answers in this article to learn more about this form of psoriasis affecting the genital area.

Question No. 1: "How does genital psoriasis present clinically?"

"The psoriasis can also be localized to the genital area. The lesions are minimally scaly on semi-mucosal surfaces. Genital involvement may be mistaken for eczema or a fungal infection."

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Question No. 2: "Are there multiple forms of genital psoriasis?"

"The anatomical sites of involvement are varied. Intergluteal cleft, labia majora, glans, pubis... all locations are possible."

Question No. 3: "What is the prevalence of genital psoriasis among patients with psoriasis?"

"Genital psoriasis is not uncommon in affected patients. It can also occur in isolation."

Question No. 4: "For genital psoriasis in women, are the treatments the same for the vulvar skin and the mucous membranes?"

"First of all, it is important to note that psoriasis does not affect the vaginal mucosa. Vulvar and cutaneous involvement is treated with topical corticosteroids," according to Dr. AMODE.

It is also important to avoid any potential irritants, such as detergent-based personal hygiene products, synthetic undergarments, or excessively aggressive drying.

Question No. 5: "Is involvement of the intergluteal fold automatic whenever there is genital involvement?"

"Involvement of the intergluteal fold is common but not always present. Genital psoriasis may occur in isolation."

Question No. 6: "Should penetrative intercourse be avoided during periods of inflammation?"

"First of all, like skin psoriasis, genital psoriasis is not contagious. Furthermore, there are no medical restrictions on sexual activity. Thus, it is possible to have sexual intercourse even when one has genital psoriasis." according to Dr. AMODE.

However, one may experience discomfort during sexual intercourse due to friction. The lesions can cause burning sensations, itching, and pain.

Question No. 7: "During menstruation, is it preferable to use sanitary pads or tampons?"

"There is no contraindication to using tampons or sanitary pads. It primarily depends on the patient's comfort," says Dr. AMODE.

However, the use of sanitary pads during the pushing phase may cause additional irritation.

Question No. 8: "How can you distinguish inverse psoriasis from a cutaneous fungal infection?"

"The intertriginous mycoses are superficial fungal infections caused by dermatophytes or yeasts, most often by yeasts of the Candida albicans frequently occurring in body folds (the groin, buttocks, under the breasts, etc.). They cause burning, itching, and red, weeping patches, sometimes covered by a whitish deposit. In contrast, inverse psoriasis appears as a well-defined red plaque. In cases of diagnostic uncertainty, the dermatologist may perform a mycological sampling."

Question No. 9: "Does genital psoriasis influence libido?"

"Not directly. However, genital psoriasis can impact self-esteem and thereby limit their sexual life. It is more of a psychological consequence.

Question No. 10: "Can a condom be used during an active psoriasis flare-up?"

"Whether female or male, there is no contraindication to this. It is entirely possible to use a condom."

Question No. 11: "Can genital psoriasis be mistaken for a sexually transmitted infection?"

"No, genital psoriasis cannot be confused with a sexually transmitted infection; their clinical presentations are not comparable," according to Dr. AMODE.

AIDS, herpes, syphilis… sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are acquired through sexual contact with another person, by blood transfusion, via shared needles, or during pregnancy from mother to child. However, psoriasis is not a disease that is transmitted horizontally, meaning a person with psoriasis cannot pass it on to someone else through touch, objects, or physical contact. The risk of contagion is zero. The psoriasis is a disease of genetic origin.

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