Episodes

  • Ep. 273 "Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis in Children and in Adults with High-Impact Site Involvement"

    Ep. 273 "Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis in Children and in Adults with High-Impact Site Involvement"
    Apr 2 2026
    Description: Learn why advocating for care is crucial when moderate to severe plaque psoriasis develops at a young age or in high-impact sites, and how advanced biologic therapies can offer effective solutions for those that may be undertreated. Join moderator Kaitlin Walden, patient advocate Carolyn, and dermatologist Dr Candrice Heath as they discuss the realities of living with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis at a young age, as well as adult patients with plaque psoriasis in high-impact sites, like the scalp, nails, and face. Carolyn shares her personal journey with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and how it has continued from childhood into adulthood, while Dr Heath offers insights to help caregivers and patients navigate treatment approaches, including when and how a biologic therapy may be helpful. This episode addresses challenges associated with living and treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in children and adults. This episode is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson. Please see Important Safety Information and full Prescribing Information for the product mentioned in this episode. Timestamps: · (0:23) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered and guest introductions from dermatologist Dr. Candrice Heath and Carolyn, a patient advocate living with plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. · (1:22) Information about, and pivotal data for, TREMFYA® (guselkumab), a biologic used to treat adults and children 6 years and older who weigh at least 88 lbs or 40 kilograms with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. · (3:48) Living with psoriasis as a child can be difficult with challenges in being diagnosed correctly and receiving appropriate treatment. · (6:17) A dermatologist's view of children and adolescents living with plaque psoriasis including in high-impact sites. · (8:14) It's important to advocate for yourself and the best possible care. · (9:37) Open communication with your dermatologist helps identify the best possible treatment plan, which is dependent on several factors including the availability of new treatment options. · (12:05) Carolyn's biggest challenge is managing her psoriasis and then psoriatic arthritis. · (14:20) Results of the SPECTREM clinical trial addressing treatment of adults with moderate plaque psoriasis in high-impact sites. · (17:38) Find the support and information you need to find the right treatment. · (21:48) Important Safety Information about TREMFYA® (guselkumab). Key Takeaways: · Plaque psoriasis can be challenging both physically and emotionally for children and adults – especially when high-impact site involvement (such as the face, scalp, armpits, and groin) is present. · Individual treatment plans vary and are based on several factors, including the severity of psoriasis, dosing schedule, cost, or route of administration. Finding the right treatment for plaque psoriasis is a collaboration between a dermatologist, the patient, and/or family (should the patient be a child). · A number of medicines that treat plaque psoriasis from the inside out, including biologics, are now available for children and adults. Such treatment options are continuing to expand. Guest Bios: Candrice Heath, M.D. is a highly respected triple board-certified dermatologist who sees both children and adults at Howard University Hospital in Washington DC where she is also an Associate Professor in the Department of Dermatology. She is board-certified in dermatology, pediatrics, and pediatric dermatology. Dr Heath is a nationally recognized speaker, pediatric and adult dermatology clinical researcher, and has held a variety of leadership roles including Chair for the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA), Skin of Color and Pigmentary Disorders Focused Group, Skin of Color Society National Secretary-Treasurer, and American Academy of Dermatology Diversity Committee member. Her clinical, research, and teaching interests are shaped by insights gained from her unique practice filled with both children and adults in addition to her passion for exploring the intersection of dermatology and social science. Carolyn Pugh is a patient advocate and volunteer with the National Psoriasis Foundation who lives with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Carolyn was diagnosed with psoriasis at age 11 after being misdiagnosed and offered treatments that didn't work. Once she was diagnosed with plaque psoriasis some of the initial treatments were difficult and unsustainable. Over the years she has learned to advocate for her own self-care and feels her personal experiences can help empower other adults and parents. Resources: · Learn more about treatment options for children and adolescents at Our Spot for Youth and Parents · For more information about psoriasis in ...
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    29 mins
  • Ep. 272 "Insights on the Use of Biosimilars for Psoriatic Disease"

    Ep. 272 "Insights on the Use of Biosimilars for Psoriatic Disease"
    Mar 12 2026
    Hear leading dermatologist Dr. E. James Song and patient advocate Ana Rinck share their perspectives on the use of biosimilars to manage psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The use of biosimilars is growing with 24 currently on the market and more on the way for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. What does this mean for you? Find out as we explore the use of biosimilars, the impact of interchangeability, what it's like switching to a biosimilar, and what questions to ask your health care provider with leading dermatologist and NPF Medical Board member Dr. E. James Song, Director of Clinical Research at Frontier Dermatology Partners, and patient advocate Ana Rinck who currently uses a biosimilar to treat her psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The intent of this episode is to offer an update on the use of biosimilars and to hear the experience of those who have used biosimilars to manage psoriatic disease. This episode is sponsored by Organon. Timestamps: (0:00) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered and guest welcome to dermatologist Dr. E. James Song, Director of Clinical Research and Co-Chief Medical Officer, Frontier Dermatology, and patient advocate Ana Rinck, who presents her experience with using a biosimilar to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. (0:58) Definition of what is a biosimilar in comparison to a biologic which is also referred to as the original bio-originator or reference product. (3:10) What biosimilars are available and how they are used. (4:35) The term interchangeable and what it means for use of a biosimilar. (5:46) Ana's diagnosis to treatment options starting with use of topicals to ultimately use of a biosimilar. (7:57) Treatment discussion and choices when faced with diminishing effectiveness within a class of medications. Should a biosimilar be considered as an option? (9:50) Questions to consider when there's a change in treatment. (10:57) FDA announcement to simplify the development process for biosimilars and what that means for the future use of biosimilars. (13:55) What to consider when thinking of a biosimilar as a treatment option and where to find help when needed. (14:53) The hope and equity of access that biosimilars represent is here for the appropriate individual. Key Takeaways: · A biosimilar is an FDA-approved biologic product that behaves and functions like a brand biologic treatment which is also called the reference product or bio-originator. There are no clinically meaningful differences between biosimilars and their reference product. · The FDA has approved several biosimilars for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Some have been identified as interchangeable which means a biosimilar could be substituted for a reference product without a health care provider's approval pending state legislative rules. · Don't be afraid to ask questions or access resources to assist with preparing for a medication change should that change be initiated either by yourself, your healthcare provider, or your health insurance company. Guest Bios: E. James Song, M.D. is a nationally recognized dermatologist and clinical researcher who is also a Clinical Instructor at the University of Washington. Dr Song is recognized as a key opinion leader in treating psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. He is actively involved in the development of new therapies for dermatologic disease and has firsthand experience with treatments before they come to market. Dr. Song has been published extensively in peer review journals and regularly participates in meetings both as a lecturer and attendee. He is also a Medical Board member of the National Psoriasis Foundation. He believes that the best health outcomes come from shared decision making between the patient and physician. Dr. Song strives to help patients understand not only their condition, but all their treatment options. Ana Rinck is a patient advocate and volunteer for the National Psoriasis Foundation. She developed psoriasis in 2009 following symptoms she noticed for a few years which proved to be challenging to diagnose. She managed for many years on topicals and intralesional injections. In 2018 she was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis and started use of a biologic realizing she needed to protect her joints from further damage. She now uses a biosimilar to manage her psoriatic disease. Ana owns her own private consulting business and is an Operations and Project Manager. Resources: -Learn more about biosimilars, interchangeability, and state substitution rules. -Armstrong A, Callis Duffin K, Feldman S, Glick B, Kalb R, Reddy S, Schwartzman S, Yamauchi P, Calabrese C, Cordoro K, Desai S, ...
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    18 mins
  • Ep. 271 "Hope and Healing: Treating Nail Psoriasis"

    Ep. 271 "Hope and Healing: Treating Nail Psoriasis"
    Feb 17 2026
    Description: Nail psoriasis is tough to treat. Hear Rebecca, a patient who lives with nail psoriasis, and dermatologist Dr. Paul Yamauchi discuss the diagnosis, care, and treatment for this high-impact site. Join host Roy Pankey as he addresses the complexities of nail psoriasis from diagnosis to coping and the latest research and treatments with leading dermatologist, Dr. Paul Yamauchi from the Dermatology Institute and Skin Care Center and Clinical Science Institute, and Rebecca, a patient advocate with the National Psoriasis Foundation who lives with nail psoriasis. Listen as they discuss the challenges associated with living with nail psoriasis, and what can be done to help manage the disease from self-care to treatment choices – including the latest research developments. While nail psoriasis can be challenging to diagnose and treat, there are many actions that can be taken to help minimize the impact of this disease. Timestamps: (0:00) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered & guest welcome Rebecca and dermatologist Dr. Paul Yamauchi. (0:58) Signs or changes to nails that indicate nail psoriasis is present. (2:07) Elements and challenges to diagnosing nail psoriasis. (4:41) What is a nail biopsy and how is it done. (5:25) How nail psoriasis relates to psoriatic arthritis. (6:19) What flares my nail psoriasis. (6:57) There are many treatment choices used to treat nail psoriasis based on convenience, impact of disease, preference, and when to expect improvement. (10:13) A personal perspective on medications used to treat nail psoriasis. (10:42) Research results of the latest medications used to treat nail psoriasis. (13:03) Upcoming oral agents that could be effective in treating nail psoriasis. (15:14) Self care tips, use of nail polish and artificial nails. (19:21) Nail psoriasis is challenging to treat. Be patient with yourself and your dermatologist. Key Takeaways: · Nail psoriasis presents many challenges from living and coping with the disease to diagnosis and treatment. · Medication choices for nail psoriasis are based on convenience, impact of disease, and preference for use of topicals, phototherapy, oral agents, and/or biologics. · Since nail psoriasis takes time to see improvement, it is important to be patient with yourself and your dermatologist. Guest Bios: Dermatologist Dr. Paul Yamauchi is President and Medical Director of the Dermatology Institute and Skin Care Center and Clinical Science Institute in Santa Monia, CA. Dr. Yamauchi is a leading expert in the field of psoriasis and has extensive experience treating different types of psoriasis using the latest treatments from topicals to biologics. He is also a Clinical Professor in the Division of Dermatology with David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dr. Yamauchi has conducted over 200 clinical research trials as principal investigator and is widely regarded as an outstanding clinical research investigator exploring innovative therapies, serving on advisory ...
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    23 mins
  • Ep. 270 "Cold Weather, Hot Flares: Winter Survival Tips for Psoriasis and PsA"

    Ep. 270 "Cold Weather, Hot Flares: Winter Survival Tips for Psoriasis and PsA"
    Jan 29 2026

    "Help! It's winter and my psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis is flaring." Listen as certified physician assistant Eileen Cheever offers tips to help manage psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis flares that occur during the winter months.

    Join host Corinne Rutkowski as she explores tips for managing psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis when cold weather flares the disease with Certified Physician Assistant Eileen Cheever from Clearview Dermatology. Listen as they discuss why flares occur and tips for improving flares from humidity, moisturizing products even for palmoplantar psoriasis, types of fabrics to layer, addressing aches and pains with psoriatic arthritis, use of rescue therapy, to stress and mood changes.

    This episode offers information to help address winter flares that may cause you to struggle with your psoriatic disease during cold weather.

    Timestamps:

    (0:00) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered & guest welcome Certified Physician Assistant Eileen Cheever.

    (1:15) Definition of a psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis flare.

    (2:32) How cold weather could be connected to winter flares of psoriatic disease.

    (4:11) Tips for addressing dryness and lack of humidity in the home.

    (6:13) Products that help moisturize your skin and when is the best time to apply it to your skin.

    (8:56) Products for moisturizing the hands and feet with palmoplantar psoriasis.

    (12:33) Types of fabrics to layer in the winter to help decrease the itch while staying warm.

    (14:15) Tips for addressing the aches and pains that come with cold winter months.

    (16:22) Medication changes vs use of rescue therapy for treating a winter flare.

    (17:51) Tips to help manage overall health, stress, and mood.

    (21:37) Reach out to your health care provider if you are struggling with your psoriatic disease.

    Key Takeaways:

    · While we don't completely understand the connection, 4 out of 10 people identify winter as the season that flares their psoriasis.

    · Factors that contribute to cold weather flares include lack of moisture or humidity in the air, viruses or flu, long heated showers that lead to dry, itchy skin, itchy fabrics, stress, and depression with dark days.

    · Strategies to address winter flares include various moisturizing products, maintaining 60% humidity, choosing breathable fabrics, lifestyle choices, and keeping your dermatologist and rheumatologist informed should rescue therapy be needed.

    Guest Bio:

    Eileen Cheever is a certified dermatology physician assistant (PA-C) with a clinical practice at Clearview Dermatology where she treats adults and children with a variety of diseases of the skin, hair, and scalp including psoriasis. She is a diplomate member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, a founding advisory board member for Elevate Medical Education, a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, and a member of the NPF Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Advisory Committee. She has a passion for providing education and lectures frequently at dermatology conferences across the country.

    Resources:

    Seasonal Flares Guide. National Psoriasis Foundation 2023©.

    8 Must-Have Lotions. Advance Weekly. Updated September 30, 2025.

    "Managing Chronic Pain with Psoriatic Arthritis" podcast episode addressing why pain occurs, its

    impact, and what can be done to manage pain both physically and emotionally.
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    24 mins
  • Ep. #269 "Melodies & Medicine: Navigating Psoriasis with Art Garfunkel"

    Ep. #269 "Melodies & Medicine: Navigating Psoriasis with Art Garfunkel"
    Dec 18 2025
    Description: In this episode hear board-certified dermatologist Dr. Omar Noor and special guest, music icon Art Garfunkel discuss management of and living with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Join us for this special episode of Psoriasis Uncovered as music icon Art Garfunkel shares his personal journey with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Alongside renowned dermatologist Dr. Omar Noor and moderator Max Blitstein, Art shares insights on his diagnosis, how psoriasis has impacted his musical career, and his experience using the treatment Ilumya (tildrakizumab-asmn). Tune in to explore the intersection of melodies, medicine, and advocacy, and gain inspiration for living with psoriasis. The intent of this episode is to share Art Garfunkel's story of living an active music career with plaque psoriasis and how he eventually found a treatment that works for him. This episode is sponsored by Sun Pharma . For important safety information: https://bit.ly/2We7fIS Timestamps: (0:23) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered and guest welcome to dermatologist Dr. Omar Noor, Co-Owner Rao Dermatology, and special guest, music icon, poet, author and actor Art Garfunkel who lives with plaque psoriasis. 1:04 Psoriasis came quietly into Art's life but wasn't easy. 1:36 Art's life on the road touring and being in the spotlight with psoriasis. 2:50 Having a strong support system is just as important as managing the physical symptoms of psoriasis. 3:59 A personalized approach to treatment options is possible when having an open dialogue with your doctor. You don't have to face the challenge of living with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis alone. 5:27 What to expect when using Iluyma®, a biologic given 4 times a year. 8:54 Art's message to anyone newly diagnosed with plaque psoriasis who feels overwhelmed. 9:20 Your treatment plan is a collaborative decision between you and your health care provider and stay informed with reliable evidence-based resources. 10:57 Closing comments and where to learn more information about Iluyma®. 11:39 Important Safety Information about Iluyma®. Key Takeaways: · Living with psoriasis can be a private struggle with challenges to overcome both physically and emotionally but know that you are not alone. · Since no two people are alike and given the variety of available treatment options, tailoring treatment options to the needs of an individual's lifestyle is possible. · Open communication between you and your health care provider is key to finding the right treatment for you. Guest Bios: Art Garfunkel is a music legend, poet, author and actor who has received numerous awards and honors throughout his life including being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Internationally recognized for having a distinctive voice as part of the duo Simon & Garfunkel and later Garfunkel & Garfunkel, he inspired many with his melodies and rhythms. But behind the harmonies and stage lights he was struggling to live with the challenge of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis feeling isolated and depressed. Finding the right treatment after years of struggling, Art hopes to inspire others through his story saying "There's real power in speaking our truths. Vulnerability, as it turns out, is not weakness, it's connection. And connection is healing. Take a breath. You will find your way through this." Omar Noor, M.D. is a board-certified dermatologist and co-owner of Rao Dermatology in New York and New Jersey. He started his dermatology career as a partner in his practice with a focus on medical dermatology, having a clinical interest in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Dr. Noor has received several awards from the New York Academy of Medicine in the field of dermatology. He currently serves as a member of the Editorial Advisory Board for Dermatology Times and the NYC Medical Reserve Corp. Resources: "Embracing Resilience", Read more about Art's story at Advance Online, National Psoriasis Foundation. August 26, 2025. Learn more about psoriasis from types, symptoms, typical locations, to diagnosis and life with psoriasis.
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    16 mins
  • Ep. #268 "Beyond the Surface: Rethinking Psoriasis Severity and Elevating the Patient Voice"

    Ep. #268 "Beyond the Surface: Rethinking Psoriasis Severity and Elevating the Patient Voice"
    Dec 2 2025
    Description: Psoriatic disease affects far more than just the skin. Hear leading dermatologist Dr. April Armstrong and Dr. Benoît Guérrette discuss this and more with Jensen, a patient advocate. Psoriatic disease affects not only the skin but it can impact confidence, emotional and social well-being, and daily life. In this episode, join moderator Dr. Guy Eakin, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at NPF, as we explore the disconnect between clinical classifications of psoriasis and what patients experience in real-life with leading dermatologist Dr. April Armstrong, Dr. Benoît Guérrette, Vice President of Dermatology & Rheumatology at Takeda, and Jensen, a NPF patient advocate and former Lead Youth Ambassador. Listen as we address the need for a more nuanced approach to classifying disease severity that accounts for the holistic needs of psoriatic disease, as well as share insights into how advocacy and awareness can drive change in treatment access and care standards. The intent of this episode is to identify how clinical severity classifications of psoriasis are evolving to meet the needs of those who live with the disease and how that change impacts overall management. This episode is sponsored by Takeda. Timestamps: (0:00) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered and guest welcome to dermatologist Dr. April Armstrong, Vice President of Takeda, Dr. Benoît Guérette, and patient advocate Jensen, who discuss the unmet needs of people with moderate psoriasis and how as a community we can better serve those living with the disease. 2:22 How health care providers and the biopharmaceutical industry are coming together to address systemic eligibility and the unmet needs of people living with psoriasis. 4:25 Quality of life should be included when assessing clinical severity in psoriasis and identification of appropriate treatment choices. 6:52 The impact of misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment, and effect on high impact sites can be life- altering. 8:30 How appropriate treatment and knowledge can make all the difference when diagnosed with plaque psoriasis. 9:40 Views on the psoriasis disease classification system and how it's evolving to include real life impact from physical and emotional needs, to more personalized care for those living with psoriasis, even when small body surface areas are involved. Severity isn't defined by skin coverage alone. 12:38 What's needed to prioritize the care and outcomes of people living with psoriasis. 14:18 The future of management and care for psoriatic disease. 15:53 "My skin tells a story." Wisdom from what I wish I had known previously. 16:52 Moving closer to care that truly reflects the lives and needs of those who live with psoriasis. Key Takeaways: · Severity of psoriasis isn't defined by skin coverage or body surface area (BSA) alone. The impact on quality of life should also be considered in the assessment, selection of treatment, and management of the disease. · The psoriasis disease classification system is evolving to be more of a patient centered approach. Many clinicians are now using the International Psoriasis Council (IPC) or 2 bucket approach to identify whether someone should receive a topical or systemic treatment based on location and response to treatment, as well as impact on quality of life. · With continued research and development, the next 5 to 10 years could see a shift in effective treatment options while also treating sooner to initiate better outcomes for people living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Guest Bios: April Armstrong, M.D., M.P.H. is an internationally renowned dermatologist and clinical researcher who is a Professor and Chief of Dermatology at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) where she specializes in inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Dr. Armstrong is also the Co-Director for Network Resources at the UCLA Clinical and Translational Research Institute. She has conducted over 150 clinical trials and published over 350 high impact articles in scientific journals. Dr. Armstrong holds multiple leadership positions including the immediate Past Chair of the National Psoriasis Foundation Medical Board, Co-President of the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA), councilor for the International Psoriasis Council, and board member for the International Dermatology Outcome Measures and the American Academy of Dermatology. Benoît Guérette, Ph.D. is an accomplished leader in medical affairs with extensive experience across academia and the pharmaceutical industry. Since March 2025, Dr. Guérette has served as Vice President of Dermatology and Rheumatology US Medical Affairs at Takeda Pharmaceutical. Prior to joining Takeda, he held several strategic and leadership roles at various pharmaceutical companies, including overseeing clinical development, ...
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    18 mins
  • Ep. 267 "Managing Chronic Pain with Psoriatic Arthritis"

    Ep. 267 "Managing Chronic Pain with Psoriatic Arthritis"
    Nov 20 2025
    Description: Chronic pain can be difficult to live with. If you have psoriatic arthritis you know all too well what that means. Listen as physiatrist Dr. Erin Maslowski and LB Herbert offer ways to manage pain before it manages your life. Join host Susan McClelland-Tobert, a retired pediatric cardiologist who also lives with psoriatic disease as she uncovers the topic of what is chronic pain and how to manage it with Dr. Erin Maslowski, a physiatrist at Emplify Health System who specializes in physical medicine, rehabilitation and pain management, along with LB Herbert who also lives with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, and knows all too well what it means to live with pain, developing her own pain tool kit. Hear different strategies for managing initial flares to when pain escalates. Pain doesn't have to dictate how you live your life. This episode addresses why pain occurs, it's impact, and what can be done to manage pain both physically and emotionally. Timestamps: (0:23) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered & guests physiatrist Dr. Erin Maslowski and LB Herbert (1:48) The unpredictability of pain and what pain means to LB. (2:31) The science behind what happens in the body when acute and chronic pain occurs. (5:08) General principles and first steps to managing pain associated with inflammatory arthritis. (11:00) Recognition of flares and taking action to reduce the impact before pain escalates. . (14:02) Steps to address the chronic pain cycle as it escalates such as steroid injections and medications that change how the brain perceives pain signals. (20:54) Side effects and cautions for use of pain management medications. (24:17) What and who LB turns to for managing her pain. (25:50) Support resources and who to consider as part of a pain management team. (33:16) Overcoming the stigma of mental health and "it's all in your head". (34:45) Addressing the challenge of fatigue that often comes with pain. It's more than feeling tired. (39:32) Activities to keep the body moving to help avoid stiff joints. . (42:11) What's on the horizon for managing pain. (44:55) Start small, experiment with change, but above all give yourself grace if you're not able to do something. Gain what control you can to live your life your way. Key Takeaways: · Chronic pain (existing for more than 3 months) occurs when ongoing inflammation keeps signaling pain via the nervous system becoming hypersensitized and greater than the original pain signal. This can occur even when inflammation is managed and in control. · Treating chronic pain is complicated however there are many different avenues to help minimize pain associated with inflammatory diseases such as psoriatic arthritis. · Management of chronic pain involves a variety of specialists and support to help address the physical and emotional impact of living with chronic pain. Guest Bios: Dr. Erin Maslowski is a board-certified physician, physiatrist, at Emplify Health System where she specializes in Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation, and Orthopedic Sports Medicine providing care for musculoskeletal and spine injuries and pain management including image-guided injection procedures. She has expertise in treating arthritis, spinal stenosis and spondylosis, rotator cuff injury, and other conditions with the ultimate goal of restoring function after injury to the muscle, bone, soft tissue, or nervous system. Dr. Maslowski is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health where she teaches both medical students and residents. She has over 15 years of clinical experience in physical medicine and rehabilitation. LB Herbert, has been living with the challenge of managing pain associated with psoriatic arthritis for 16 years, even developing her own tool kit through the years. She has shared what's she's learned on other episodes of this podcast, through articles, and as a One-to-One Program mentor for the National Psoriasis Foundation. LB began her journey in 2009 with back pain. Following many years of being misdiagnosed she finally found a rheumatologist who put all her symptoms together to diagnose her with psoriatic arthritis and place her on an appropriate treatment path. She states "my biggest challenge is not knowing what each day will bring, what the symptoms will be, and if I wake up and flare. It's a continuous unknown." Resources: Chronic Pain kit NSAIDS for Psoriatic Disease Podcast episode: "Living with Chronic with Chronic Pain and Fatigue in PsA and SpA" with rheumatologist Dr. Philip Mease, Dr. Ernest Choy, from Cardiff University School of Medicine, with patients Melissa Leeolou and Minionette "Mini" Wilson who discuss causes, symptoms, risks, and tips for managing chronic pain and fatigue successfully....
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    50 mins
  • Ep. 266 "No Compromise: Skin, Joints, and You"

    Ep. 266 "No Compromise: Skin, Joints, and You"
    Oct 30 2025
    Description: In this episode, we'll explore what it means to aim for no compromise in psoriatic arthritis care—addressing both skin and joint symptoms with dermatologist and rheumatologist Dr. Saakshi Khattri and patient advocate Dayna Pham who lives with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Join moderator Jeff Brown as he asks how patients and their healthcare providers can work in partnership to create a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that reflects the full impact of psoriatic disease with triple board-certified dermatologist, rheumatologist, and internist Dr Saakshi Khattri, who is also an NPF medical board member, along with Dayna Pham, a patient advocate and volunteer with NPF's advocacy and community engagement teams who is living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. . Whether you're newly diagnosed or navigating long-term care, this conversation is all about advocating for care that supports your whole self—without settling for less. The intent of this episode is to emphasize the need to be aware of psoriatic arthritis symptoms and once symptoms are present accept no compromise when treating skin and joints to obtain clear skin and painless joints. This podcast episode is sponsored by UCB. Timestamps: (0:23) Intro to Psoriasis Uncovered and guest welcome dermatologist, rheumatologist, and internist Dr. Saakshi Khattri and Dayna Pham, a patient advocate and medical student living with plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. (1:38) Psoriasis is more than skin deep with an inflammatory connection between the skin and joints. (3:03) The onset of psoriatic arthritis can be confusing. Healthy skin and joints should be the expectation without having to compromise on life's goals. (4:16) Knowing the association between psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis from the beginning is important to avoid delay in diagnosis and treatment. Be aware of systemic symptoms and discuss risks with a health care provider. (6:18 ) The goal of treatment is to achieve meaningful and lasting improvement in skin and joint symptoms. (7:56) Treatments have evolved to target known drivers of inflammation in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. (8:29) The IL-17 family is a key cytokine with 6 related signaling molecules. IL-17A and F play a role in the inflammatory process related to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. (9:48) What discussion about treatment goals could include between a patient and health care provider. (13:19) If you have psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis you should feel empowered to speak up, seek answers, and find a treatment that offers no compromise on achieving clear skin and healthy joints. Key Takeaways: · Psoriasis is an immune mediated disease that results in systemic inflammation that can affect both the skin and joints. Unfortunately many people do not realize their joint symptoms may be related to their psoriasis. · The purpose of treatment which uses a variety of mechanisms of action targeting specific cytokines such as TNF-alpha, IL-12/23, IL-23, IL-17 is to achieve meaningful and lasting improvement in skin and joint symptoms. · If you have psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis you should feel empowered to speak up, seek answers, and to work with your health care team to identify goals and treatment choices that aim to preserve quality of life. Guest Bios: Saakshi Khattri, M.D., MAS, is a triple board certified medical dermatologist, rheumatologist, and internist in the greater New York area who serves on the medical board of the National Psoriasis Foundation. She is the Director of the Center for Connective Tissue Diseases at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Dr. Khattri's area of interests include inflammatory and autoimmune skin diseases especially those with a rheumatology/dermatology overlap like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. She is actively involved in research and clinical trials for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis where she seeks to identify immune pathways that lead to new biomarkers and treatments. Dr. Khattri is extensively published in peer reviewed journals and is also a member of the International Psoriasis Council. ​Dayna Pham is a patient advocate, medical student, and volunteer with NPF's advocacy and community engagement teams who lives with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Dayna's psoriasis journey began at age 21 when she discovered bumps on her back which became plaques. Within weeks her body was impacted head to toe with plaque psoriasis, at 40% BSA. After being misdiagnosed and undertreated for a few months she eventually found a dermatologist who diagnosed her with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and ...
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    16 mins