[Therapy options for psoriasis in childhood and adolescence].

Up to 30% of all psoriatic patients show their first symptoms during childhood and adolescence. In 1/4 of these children, psoriatic lesions appear within the first two years of life. The treatment of pediatric psoriasis differs considerably in several ways from that of adults. Not only the age and intensity but also physical development, prognostic criteria and social background should be considered. Standard procedures, clinical trials of high quality and therapeutic guidelines for psoriasis in childhood are still lacking. This review surveys the therapeutic management of pediatric and juvenile psoriasis. Current topical and systemic therapy options are critically reviewed. Prevention as well as enhancement of quality of life are also considered.