Q. I am 38 years old. I've had psoriasis for 5 years. Recently, my psoriasis is on one of my breast but I would like to breastfeed my baby whom I just gave birth to. Will that effect my baby in any way at all?

A.Psoriasis is not contageous. This is a skin condition of skin cell overactivity. Cells in psoriatic areas are growing faster than the adjacent skin cells. Research has shown us that there is a genetic predisposition as to why people get this. Sometimes bacteria can grow in psoriatic plaques. I will remind you that we all have bacteria on our skin. The point is that if you are breast feeding in an area of psoriasis, you should wash the area with soap and water before breast feeding.



Q.I have constant dryness on the palms of my hands. They are red and sometimes crack. When they got real bad, I got a diagnosis of psoriasis and I’m not sure it is right. Is there any place online I can see pictures so I can double check whether she’s right?

A.This is a good question as there are many look-a-likes for rashes on the hands. The differential diagnosis includes psoriasis, eczema or contact dermatitis among others. Initially, conventional treatment with prescription cortisone creams is tried. We also will restrict irritating factors such as exposure to chemicals, excessive friction and/or water. If the above is not helpful, we do patch tests for allergies and a skin biopsy. As you can see, you should consult with your dermatologist.



Q.My mother has suffered with a rash on he legs for over a year now it starts as red purplish blotches and over time they turn like brown bruises at times they can also itch but not much. Can you help as the doctor says its psoriasis but has never tested her. It is really quite ugly. When it does fade it returns at a latter time again. She has been taking Colloidal silver. Can you please help as she wont go and tell her doctor how bad it is?

A.There are a number of conditions that can cause “red purplish blotches” in the skin. Psoriasis is one of them. An experienced dermatologist many times can make the diagnosis without a skin biopsy.

Your mother really needs to tell her doctor how bad it is. These conditions are treatable and controllable. There are over -the-counter and prescription treatments available.