Do babies get psoriasis?
It is exceedingly rare for babies to have psoriasis particularly if there is no history in the family. Rashes in the nappy area may be psoriasis or may be a straightforward nappy rash. Psoriasis in the nappy area will look red and shiny and it will be very clearly demarcated i.e. it will be very obvious where the rash stops and normal skin takes over.What causes psoriasis?
Certain genes have been identified as being linked to psoriasis. It appears, however, that a genetic tendency needs to be triggered off by such things as injury, throat infection, certain drugs and physical and emotional stress. Research is beginning to unravel the genetic aspects and in time it should be possible to identify those who have a tendency to psoriasis before they actually develop signs. If one parent has psoriasis the chances of a child developing it is around 15%. However if both parents have psoriasis the chances increase to around 75%.What treatments are available?
Treatment must steer a course between doing too little and too much. Too little and worthwhile improvement is denied; too much and the life of the child and family is burdened by it. It is most important that parents talk through in detail the treatments proposed with the GP or Consultant. Many treatments in use for adults will help children but because of a lack of medical research on the effects on children some treatments are not licensed for use in childhood. It is important to follow instructions carefully and to keep the skin moisturised.Immunisations
All the usual immunisation procedures may be safely given but it is worth remembering that a patch of psoriasis may come up at any site where the skin has been 'injured' e.g. following immunisation with BCG.(published with permission in writing from:http://www.psoriasis-association.org.uk/)
