Take a short survey for a chance to win! Click to take survey.
caret icon Back to all discussions

Psoriasis

Does anyone in this group have psoriasis along with NMOSD? I have both and my dermatologist wants me to take an immunosuppressant for it. I am already on Ultomiris for NMOSD and am fearful of taking another immunosuppressant. Any advice is welcomed.

  1. I was diagnosed with NMOSD when most docs had never heard of it almost 10 years ago. It was after an awful, but short bout of West Nile encephalitis. My ophthalmologist made the diagnosis after confirmed optic neuritis (visual evoked potential). I have a great neurologist and have been maintaining fairly well neurologically, thanks to his help. In April of last year (2024), I was diagnosed with psoriasis of the scalp, now spreading some to forehead, neck. My dermatologist is puzzled as nothing has helped. I am very sensitive to any of the drugs used to treat autoimmune disorders so occasional steroid infusions during flares along with symptom control have been the path with NMO. Topical and oral steroids have not helped my scalp. I have cut my hair into a military buzz cut (I had long hair prior). I’m now finding some relief with far IR light therapy. Not great but on this road will take what small improvements I get. I can’t help but think there’s a connection so be interested to hear if any others have suffered this issue. My dermatologist is clueless. My neurologist feels there is a connection as we’re still in learning process with this disorder. Just glad it’s being recognized more and getting more attention. When first diagnosed I got clueless looks and no understanding of my neurological deficits. If I had MS, much sympathy and understanding, but what the heck is NMO. Thus, I’m glad that’s changing and more research attention paid.

    Please read our rules before posting.