Preface

Psoriasis has a worldwide distribution varying according to race and geographic location. This book presents the international experience of psoriasis from pathophysiology to clinical presentation and treatment strategies.

The first section of the volume focuses on research related to the development of therapies for psoriasis. Experimental models and clinical results from immunologically directed therapies have demonstrated the important role and interaction of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and immune cells in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

The next segment of the volume presents the varying, and often difficult to treat, clinical manifestations of psoriasis. The role of vitamin D in psoriasis is explored and the role of the metabolic syndrome in psoriasis is reviewed.

The final segment of the volume is a discussion of therapy. The review of topical and biologic treatments discusses the spectrum of therapies available for psoriasis. The efficacy and safety of cyclosporine, a traditional systemic therapy, and the role of diet and nutrition is addressed.

We hope you enjoy and find the information useful in your research or practice. We urge that you continue to keep abreast of the new developments in psoriasis and share your knowledge so that we may advance treatment and cures of psoriasis.

**Mona Malakouti** (medical student) assisted with editing of the "UVB and Vitamin D in Psoriasis"chapter.

#### **Jennifer Soung, M.D.**

Assistant Professor & Director Dermatology Clinical Research University of California, Irvine USA

**Bonnie Koo, M.D.** Clinical Research Specialist University of California, Irvine USA

**Part 1** 

**Pathophysiology** 
