Can Telemedicine Treat Psoriasis (Mild) in Children?

Audience: pediatric

Mild psoriasis in children is a common skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. Telemedicine can often help manage mild cases by allowing healthcare providers to assess symptoms, recommend treatments, and provide ongoing support without needing an in-person visit. Through video or photo consultations, doctors can evaluate the skin and suggest topical creams or lifestyle changes that may improve the condition. However, if symptoms worsen or do not improve, an in-person visit might be necessary for further tests or treatments. Telemedicine is a helpful tool for monitoring mild psoriasis in children but is not a replacement for emergency care or complex treatment needs.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Rapid increase in size or number of skin patches — seek in-person care promptly.
• Development of severe pain, swelling, or bleeding in affected areas — go to emergency or urgent care.
• New symptoms such as fever, joint pain, or fatigue alongside skin changes — consult healthcare provider immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild skin symptoms through video or photos.
• Providing advice on topical treatments and skin care.
• Monitoring treatment response and adjusting care plans.
• Educating families about managing triggers and lifestyle changes.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing severe or complicated psoriasis cases requiring physical examination.
• Performing skin biopsies or laboratory tests.
• Managing emergency symptoms like infection or severe pain.
• Prescribing systemic medications that need close monitoring.

What Is Mild Psoriasis in Children?

Mild psoriasis is a skin condition that causes patches of red, inflamed, and scaly skin. In children, it often appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, or torso. It is usually not painful but can be itchy and uncomfortable. Mild psoriasis means the patches cover a small area and do not cause serious health problems.

How Can Telemedicine Help?

Telemedicine allows doctors to see your child's skin through video calls or photos. They can check the size and appearance of the patches and suggest treatments like moisturizing creams or medicated ointments. Doctors can also give advice on avoiding triggers such as dry skin or stress. Follow-up visits can be done remotely to track progress and adjust treatments.

When Is In-Person Care Needed?

If the skin patches grow larger, become very painful, or if your child develops new symptoms like fever or joint pain, an in-person visit is important. Sometimes, mild psoriasis can worsen or lead to other issues that require physical examination or lab tests. If topical treatments do not help after several weeks, a face-to-face consultation may be necessary.

Tips for Managing Mild Psoriasis at Home

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Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the appointment, take clear photos of the affected skin areas in good light. Write down any symptoms, when they started, and any treatments already tried. Make a list of questions or concerns to discuss with the doctor. Ensure your device has a good internet connection and that you are in a private, quiet space for the call.

What to Expect After the Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider may recommend topical treatments and lifestyle changes. They might schedule follow-up telemedicine visits to monitor progress. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, they will advise when to seek in-person care. Always follow the treatment instructions carefully and report any side effects or new symptoms promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Take clear photos of the psoriasis patches in good lighting.
• Note when symptoms started and any changes over time.
• List any treatments already used and their effects.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the doctor.
• Ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet, private space for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan provided by the healthcare provider.
• Keep the affected skin moisturized and avoid known triggers.
• Monitor the skin for any changes or worsening symptoms.
• Attend scheduled follow-up telemedicine visits as advised.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or new symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose psoriasis in children?

Telemedicine can often help identify mild psoriasis by reviewing photos or video of the skin. However, some cases may require an in-person visit for a full examination or tests.

What treatments can be recommended through telemedicine?

Doctors can suggest topical creams, moisturizers, and skin care routines during telemedicine visits. They can also advise on lifestyle changes to reduce flare-ups.

When should I take my child to see a doctor in person?

If your child's skin patches grow quickly, become painful, bleed, or if they develop fever or joint pain, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Is telemedicine safe for managing my child's psoriasis?

Yes, telemedicine is a safe and convenient way to manage mild psoriasis, especially for routine follow-ups. It is important to follow the provider's advice and seek in-person care when needed.

Can telemedicine prescribe medications for psoriasis?

Providers can often prescribe topical medications through telemedicine. However, systemic treatments usually require in-person visits for monitoring.

Sources

1. Psoriasis - MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Psoriasis - Mayo Clinic — Mayo Clinic.
3. Psoriasis Information - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — CDC.
4. Psoriasis in Children - American Academy of Pediatrics — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms worsen or you have concerns, please seek evaluation by a healthcare professional in person or emergency services as needed.