Case Studies

Case 13: A male with psoriasis (Part 15 The skin)

Tamwar Patel, aged 21 years, lives with his mother and two sisters in a flat in an inner-city area. His parents separated ten years ago. He was born in East Africa of Indian origin and has been living in England for the past nine years. He is self-employed, working as a local market trader, where he sells bedding and other linen products. Approximately six months ago he developed psoriasis over the whole of his body, which became worse after he spent two months in India three months ago. His skin is covered with raised, red, scaly, oval lesions with clearly marginated edges. The scales are silvery-white and the skin between the lesions appears normal. He is being treated by his GP.

• 1. Explain the abnormal pathophysiology associated with this dermatological condition.

• 2. List the possible treatments for the flexures and scalp and treatment of other affected areas.

• 3. Discus the factors that can cause psoriasis.

• 4. Thinking of altered body image how can the nurse help Tamwar? Discuss the term 'stigma'.

Take time to consider what may occur if the treatment prescribed for Tamwar fails to have any positive impact on his condition. What do you think are the potential consequences of untreated psoriasis?