Abstract

CABRAL, Helena  and  CARNEIRO, Joana. The role of icthyotherapy in the treatment of psoriasis: a case report. Rev Port Med Geral Fam [online]. 2014, vol.30, n.6, pp.402-405. ISSN 2182-5173.

Introduction: Psoriasis is a common condition affecting 1 to 3% of the Portuguese population. It has a chronic course and lesions may cover the whole surface of the skin. With obviously visible lesions, the disease is seen as stigmatizing and patients may feel embarrassment and rejection by others. It can affect social contacts, self-image, and self-esteem. Treatment aims at reducing the number and severity of skin lesions using phototherapy, topical treatment and systemic medications. Some treatments may be contraindicated, some may lose efficacy, some cause serious adverse effects, while others may not be readily available. All this may cause patients to seek alternative therapies. Icthyotherapy, using the freshwater fish Garra rufa, has been discussed as an option. This treatment is currently available in several places in Portugal and deserves the attention of health professionals. Case description: A 35 year-old sailor with severe psoriasis diagnosed in childhood is described. He was treated by a dermatologist and a psychologist. He presented with lesions covering 60% of the skin surface, resistant to multiple treatments, and was receiving only topical therapy. He had recently been given systemic acitretin with good results during treatment but with recurrence of lesions when treatment ended. When he came to the family health unit he was discouraged by his current condition and doubtful about the possibilities for future treatment. He mentioned that he had seen icthyotherapy in a shopping centre and expressed interest in trying it. After five sessions of icthyotherapy, with total immersion of the body in a water tank and simultaneous application of calcipotriol and betamethasone, he noted a reduction in scaling and itching. He also noted an improvement in his mood and was satisfied with the early results of treatment. Comments: Icthyotherapy may be useful in refractory and disfiguring cases of psoriasis. This case also demonstrates benefits of its use. It appears to be safe. There are a few reports of cases of patients with skin infections from exposure to G. rufa.

Keywords : Psoriasis; Fishes; Animal Assisted Therapy.

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