Interview transcription:

Penelope Pratsou explains what you can do if you have psoriasis. 

What should you do if you have psoriasis?

Penelope Pratsou: I would say that it might be a chronic condition, but it’s certainly not one that you have to put up with. It’s important that if you do have psoriasis, that you see someone with an interest in psoriasis, whether that is me or another specialist dermatologist. I would then want to see you and take a careful history, find out how long you’ve had the problem for and what areas of your body this is affecting…

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Penelope Pratsou: Also, we’d want to know if it’s affecting other parts of your life because we know that there is a big element of low mood and anxiety that can go with psoriasis.

Based on that and a careful examination of your skin, I would then be able to recommend the best treatment options for you and tailor a plan according to what your skin needs and what you’re able to do with regards to your lifestyle.

If you notice that you have any of the symptoms or conditions that we’ve just discussed, we invite you to book a consultation with Dr Penelope Pratsou. She’ll be able to assess your situation and give you a personalised treatment plan.

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About the author

Dr Penelope Pratsou | Consultant Dermatologist

MBChB, MRCP (UK) (Dermatology)

I’m Dr Penelope Pratsou, a skilled independent Consultant Dermatologist based in Berkshire. I have specialist expertise in the diagnosis and management of all skin cancers, and in performing mole checks. I’m a trained skin surgeon and remove skin cancers, moles, skin tags, cysts and warts.

I also have invaluable experience in dealing with all skin conditions, from the common skin complaints of acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis, to the rarer and more complex skin problems, having seen it all through years of NHS work.

After I obtained my Membership to the Royal College of Physicians, I undertook rigorous specialist training in dermatology, before being appointed as a Consultant Dermatologist at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading. There, I helped set up and lead a busy clinic for the diagnosis and treatment of suspected skin cancer. I was also actively involved in supervising and training both dermatology and GP trainees.

Alongside my increasingly busy private practice, I have maintained an NHS practice in Oxford in order to continue to engage with challenging cases and to develop my specialist interest in skin allergy.