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Integumentary and Sensory Case Studies
MSN Nursing, St. Thomas University
NUR 502: Advanced Pathophysiology
February 27, 2025
, Integumentary and Sensory 2
Case Study: Integumentary Function
Triggers and Clinical Types of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with multifactorial triggers, including
genetic predisposition, immune system dysregulation, and environmental factors. Common
triggers for psoriasis include stress, infections (such as streptococcal pharyngitis), trauma to the
skin (Koebner phenomenon), smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications,
including beta-blockers and lithium (Elmets et al., 2019). The primary clinical types of psoriasis
include plaque psoriasis (the most common form, characterized by raised, scaly, erythematous
plaques), guttate psoriasis (small, drop-like lesions often triggered by infections), inverse
psoriasis (affecting skin folds with shiny, smooth lesions), pustular psoriasis (characterized by
white pustules on erythematous skin), and erythrodermic psoriasis (a severe, generalized form
associated with systemic inflammation) (Griffiths et al., 2021). K.B.’s case involves generalized
plaque psoriasis, the most common form.
Treatment Approaches for K.B.'s Relapse
Treatment for psoriasis can be categorized into topical therapies, systemic therapies, and
phototherapy. A combination of treatments may be necessary, Given K.B.'s history and the
extent of her current flare-up. Topical corticosteroids remain the first-line treatment for mild to
moderate psoriasis; however, with generalized involvement, systemic therapy may be required
(Menter et al., 2019). Biologic therapies that focus on tumor necrosis factor-alpha or interleukin
pathways, including options like adalimumab and secukinumab, could be considered suitable for
K.B. Systemic non-biologic options include methotrexate and cyclosporine (Griffiths et al.,
2021). Non-pharmacological strategies include stress management, maintaining a healthy diet,
Integumentary and Sensory Case Studies
MSN Nursing, St. Thomas University
NUR 502: Advanced Pathophysiology
February 27, 2025
, Integumentary and Sensory 2
Case Study: Integumentary Function
Triggers and Clinical Types of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with multifactorial triggers, including
genetic predisposition, immune system dysregulation, and environmental factors. Common
triggers for psoriasis include stress, infections (such as streptococcal pharyngitis), trauma to the
skin (Koebner phenomenon), smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications,
including beta-blockers and lithium (Elmets et al., 2019). The primary clinical types of psoriasis
include plaque psoriasis (the most common form, characterized by raised, scaly, erythematous
plaques), guttate psoriasis (small, drop-like lesions often triggered by infections), inverse
psoriasis (affecting skin folds with shiny, smooth lesions), pustular psoriasis (characterized by
white pustules on erythematous skin), and erythrodermic psoriasis (a severe, generalized form
associated with systemic inflammation) (Griffiths et al., 2021). K.B.’s case involves generalized
plaque psoriasis, the most common form.
Treatment Approaches for K.B.'s Relapse
Treatment for psoriasis can be categorized into topical therapies, systemic therapies, and
phototherapy. A combination of treatments may be necessary, Given K.B.'s history and the
extent of her current flare-up. Topical corticosteroids remain the first-line treatment for mild to
moderate psoriasis; however, with generalized involvement, systemic therapy may be required
(Menter et al., 2019). Biologic therapies that focus on tumor necrosis factor-alpha or interleukin
pathways, including options like adalimumab and secukinumab, could be considered suitable for
K.B. Systemic non-biologic options include methotrexate and cyclosporine (Griffiths et al.,
2021). Non-pharmacological strategies include stress management, maintaining a healthy diet,
