Psoriasis of the scalp – the current state of the problem
https://doi.org/10.21518/ms2026-087
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that has systemic effects on the body and is associated with genetic and immunological disorders. Its pathogenesis involves dysregulation of the immune system, particularly T-lymphocytes of the Th1 and Th17 types, leading to inflammation, increased keratinocyte proliferation, and skin changes. Psoriasis often affects the scalp (head), which negatively impacts quality of life. A connection has been found between scalp psoriasis and the development of hair loss (alopecia) and other morphological hair changes. Additionally, an imbalance in the microbiome, including colonization by yeastlike fungi, has been observed, which may exacerbate the disease course. Topical agents play a key role in improving treatment efficacy and patient quality of life. These include drugs with anti-inflammatory, keratolytic, and immunosuppressive effects, such as corticosteroids and salicylic acid. Modern practice favors medications that are safe and easy to use, like the lotion Akriderm with betamethasone and salicylic acid. Advances in technology enable better drug penetration and reduce the risk of side effects. Clinical experience confirms the positive role of a comprehensive approach using these treatments for controlling psoriasis of the scalp. This article presents clinical case reports of treatment of three patients with plaque scalp psoriasis in advanced stages, who presented to the consultative and diagnostic department of the outpatient clinic at the Altai State Medical University with complaints of scalp rash, itching, and inflammation. All patients were prescribed combination therapy with betamethasone dipropionate cream. In all cases, symptom relief was achieved within 2–3 weeks of treatment.
About the Authors
Ju. S. Kovaleva
Altai State Medical University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Julia S. Kovalеva, Dr. Sci. (Med.), Head of the Department of Dermatovenereology, Cosmetology and Immunology
40, Lenin Ave., Barnaul, Altai Region, 656038
O. A. Kokina
Altai State Medical University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Oksana A. Kokina, Cand. Sci. (Med.), Associate Professor, Associate Professor of the Department of Dermatovenerology, Cosmetology, and Immunology
40, Lenin Ave., Barnaul, Altai Region, 656038
А. А. Vedler
Altai State Medical University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Anna A. Vedler, Cand. Sci. (Med.), Assistant of the Department of Dermatovenerology, Cosmetology, and Immunology
40, Lenin Ave., Barnaul, Altai Region, 656038
P. D. Savelyeva
Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Polina D. Savelyeva, Student
8, Bldg. 2, Trubetskaya St., Moscow, 119991
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For citations:
Kovaleva JS, Kokina OA, Vedler АА, Savelyeva PD. Psoriasis of the scalp – the current state of the problem. Meditsinskiy sovet = Medical Council. 2026;(2):70-78. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.21518/ms2026-087
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