What happens at the GP (doctor) or dermatologist?

Before you continue - the following advice may come in handy:

• Write down your questions to the doctor in advance - so you don't forget any important questions or concerns that you might have.
• Make a list to the doctor about which types of medication you are using. Such a list will in many cases be a help. 

1st time at the GP?

At your first visit to the GP, he or she will examine your particular skin lesion. The GP may ask you if you have similar lesions on other body parts, and then these lesions will often be examinated as well. The GP will ask about your family history and if relevant make a note about other cases of psoriasis in your family. Remember, that psoriasis is a hereditary disease. The GP may also ask you when the lesions started to appear - and under which circumstances. During a stressfull period? During a summer holiday? After a period of illness? Or if you have started on any new medication lately?

When the GP feels that he or she has gathered enough information - the GP will either confirm or deny whether the GP thinks that you have psoriasis or not. If in doubt, the GP will most probably refer you to a dermatologist for further investigation.

The GP may hand out a patient leaflet where you can read more about psoriasis and different treatment regimens. The GP will most often prescribe a topical therapy - e.g. a cream or an ointment.

Be sure to make an appointment within the next 4 weeks with the GP, so that both of you can evaluate whether the treatment prescribed to you, has been effective or not.

1st time at the dermatologist?

When you are referred to a Dermatologist, it is usually because the GP is uncertain of the diagnosis or wants "a second opinion". A referral to a Dermatologist can also be due to lack of treatment efficacy or a sudden flare-up in your psoriasis. Or if you have more severe psoriasis - such as severe psoriasis in the scalp or nail psoriasis or psoriasis on the genitals.

The Dermatologist will ask you more detailed about your treatment. Did you follow the treatment instructions given to you by your GP? Have you tried other, alternative treatments? Which particular treatments do you feel have been effective?

If the Dermatologist is in doubt whether you have psoriasis or not - a small skin biopsy is sometimes taken from the particular lesion to verify the diagnosis.

Depending on your specific needs and on the Dermatologist's personal evaluation, you should both agree on an appropriate treatment, suited to your needs.