Services
Psoriasis
Understanding and managing psoriasis — with clear diagnostics, realistic therapy planning, and personal care in Vienna Döbling.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Typical findings are sharply demarcated red plaques with silvery scale — often on elbows, knees, scalp, or lower back. Variants may involve nails, joints (psoriatic arthritis), or widespread disease. Some forms mainly affect flexures or appear after infections.
The disease is not contagious. Triggers and aggravating factors can include stress, infections, certain medicines, skin injury (Köbner phenomenon), or climate. Individual course varies widely: some people have mild, limited flares; others have more pronounced phases that clearly affect daily life and wellbeing.
This page offers general information and does not replace a personal diagnosis or treatment decision. If you are unsure whether your skin changes fit psoriasis, a specialist examination is the right next step — not self-diagnosis on the internet.
When is a consultation useful?
Dermatological assessment is advisable for new scaly plaques, itch or pain, nail changes, or when joint symptoms appear. If an existing diagnosis seems unclear or previous treatments have not helped, a second opinion at the specialist practice can also help.
People with mild psoriasis often seek advice on care and topical therapies; in moderate to severe disease the question is which systemic or further options should be considered — always in a medical context and after individual assessment. Psychological burden from visible plaques may also be discussed and taken seriously.
Another reason is uncertainty after online research: many texts mix mild and severe courses or promise quick fixes. At the practice the aim is to separate your specific findings from general advice and formulate a realistic plan.
Our approach at the practice
At Dr. Mahitab Khalifa-Paruch’s practice, secure classification of the findings comes first: distinguishing eczema, fungal infection, or other scaly dermatoses. We then discuss therapy goals — such as relieving itch, reducing visible plaques, or longer-term stabilization.
Treatment depends on extent, location, comorbidities, and your daily needs. Topical therapies, phototherapy concepts, or referral and coordination of further measures may be part of the plan. Decisions are explained transparently; promises of cure or blanket success guarantees are neither good practice nor realistic medicine.
What to expect at your visit
The appointment covers history, skin and if needed nail findings, and previous therapies. Where necessary, differential diagnoses and the value of additional tests are discussed. Please bring a list of current medicines and creams used so far.
You receive a clear plan for the coming weeks: how to apply preparations, what to watch in daily care, and when follow-up makes sense. If joint involvement is suspected, coordination with other specialties is recommended. Concrete options always depend on individual findings.
Follow-up and long-term support
Psoriasis often runs in phases. Follow-up means recognizing flares early, adjusting therapies, and watching for side effects or intolerance. Many people benefit from a clear scheme for daily care and acute treatment.
A short symptom diary (site, triggers, care products) can help track the course. For acute worsening or new symptoms (e.g. joint pain, fever, widespread redness), seek medical advice promptly and do not rely on website information alone.
Frequently asked questions
Is psoriasis curable?
Psoriasis is generally a chronic condition. Many people achieve longer stable phases with individualized therapy. Complete “cure” in the sense of permanent disappearance cannot be promised in general — the goal is often control and quality of life.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Psoriasis is not infectious. Visible skin changes can still be emotionally burdensome; clear information and suitable therapy can make daily life easier.
What role does skin care play?
Regular, skin-friendly care often supports the barrier and can usefully accompany medical therapy. Which products suit you depends on skin condition and should be assessed medically.
When do I need systemic therapy?
That depends on extent, location, burden of disease, and response to topical measures. The decision is individual after examination and counselling — not a blanket recommendation from a website.