Marino Center Offers Exciting New Treatment for Psoriasis

Using a new UVB XTRAC® light laser by Excimer, the Marino Center now offers a quick and effective way to safely and naturally treat psoriasis (scaly skin plaques).  The best news is that a course of just 10-12 treatment sessions (10 minutes each) can provide long lasting relief - typically several months free of symptoms. 

How does this treatment work?
We deliver a carefully focused beam of UVB light on the psoriasis affected skin only; healthy skin is not affected. The laser simulates natural UVB rays similar to sunlight.  As you know, your psoriasis improves with sun exposure, but excess sun exposure is not good for normal skin.  Our treatment is directed at the problem skin only, thus avoiding the risk of excess exposure to other areas.  Our treatment will also likely eliminate the need for daily topical treatment with steroids which, over the long term, can also cause problems. 

This treatment is covered by most insurance plans including but not limited to Medicare, BlueCross/BlueShield, Tufts Health Plan, Harvard Pilgrim, and United Healthcare. 

 

To find out more or to schedule an appointment…
If you are interested in learning more about the treatment, please call our office at (781) 235-5200 x 7502 and ask for Kim to make an introductory appointment with Dr. Justin Groode, MD., a board certified Family Medicine physician with a special interest in Dermatology. During this visit, we will review your medical history, determine if there are any contraindications to your receiving this treatment and then set up a series of treatment visits.

 

 

Did you know…
 

• Psoriasis is the most prevalent autoimmune disease in the US
• According to current statistics, as many as 7.5 Americans have psoriasis – that’s approximately 2.2 percent of the population
• Psoriasis is not a cosmetic problem. 
• Nearly 60 percent of people with psoriasis consider it to be a major concern in their everyday lives.
• Psoriasis often appears between the ages of 15 and 25 but can develop at any age.

 

Tips for Psoriasis Care as the Weather Gets Colder

Although every season provides its own unique set of challenges for psoriasis patients, the colder months prove to be more severe with respect to flare-ups. With painless XTRAC® Excimer Laser treatments, psoriasis patients can receive relief from cold weather flare-ups.
   
Here are a few triggers and tips, for psoriasis care during the colder weather:

1. Less Access to Sunlight: Exposure to ultraviolet light is a key factor in clearing psoriasis symptoms. Since colder months mean less access to sunlight, psoriasis sufferers often see an increase in flare-ups during this time of year. However, psoriasis patients receive just the right amount of ultraviolet light during the dark days of fall and winter with targeted phototherapy treatments using the XTRAC Excimer Laser.
2. Bacteria Exposure: Bacterial infections, such as astreptococcal infection (strep throat), are common triggers of psoriasis flare up. Certain medications including steroids that often treat winter viruses can also cause an increase in psoriasis irritation. To prevent flare-ups, try to steer clear of those with colds and infections that can be easily transmitted. Follow the typical cold/flu season guidelines of washing hands frequently and not shaking hands with others that appear to be sick.
3. Wool Clothing: The texture of wool and certain synthetic fabrics rubbing up against the skin is a common stimulus for psoriasis irritation. Layering with cotton underneath wool will decrease irritation and make flare ups less likely.
4. Stress: Physical and mental stress is another contributor to an increase in irritation from psoriasis. Autumn is the gateway to stressful events such as going back to school and the busy holiday season. Take some time to relax and incorporate yoga or meditation into your routine.
Source - XTRAC® Excimer Laser (www.XTRACLaser.com)