Pedskin Research clinical trials for children

Treatment of Plaque Psoriasis

Is your child affected by thick, scaly, or red patches on their skin?

We are now enrolling children with moderate to severe Plaque Psoriasis in a new clinical trial.

About the Treatment

Apremilast (Otezla) Study:

For mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis in children aged 6-17 years old. Guaranteed treatment (open-label) for up to 225 days.

Pedskin Research pediatric dermatology

Request an Appointment

To request an appointment, please fill out the contact form below. Our team will get back to you as soon as possible to confirm your appointment and answer any questions you may have.
We look forward to assisting you.

Plaque Psoriasis Treatment
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Meet Our Medical Director

Mercedes E. Gonzalez M.D.
Mercedes E. Gonzalez M.D.

Dr. Mercedes E. Gonzalez is a board-certified pediatric dermatologist. After graduating from Emory University, she earned her degree at Rutgers–New Jersey Medical School in 2004. Always drawn to working with children, she accepted the prestigious pediatrics program at the Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York–Columbia University where she solidified her interest in treating skin disorders. She then completed a dermatology residency followed by a clinical fellowship in pediatric dermatology at the top-ranked New York University (NYU) Department of Dermatology.

Her gentle, child-friendly bedside manner, combined with her broad knowledge of childhood skin diseases and their treatments, make her the preferred pediatric dermatologist in Miami. In addition to practicing medicine, Dr. Gonzalez currently serves as a clinical assistant professor at The FIU Herbert Wertheim School of Medicine and The Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology at Miller School of Medicine.

Dr. Gonzalez serves as the principal investigator on numerous clinical trials and has a special interest in severe skin diseases in children. She lectures regularly at dermatology conferences and to medical students and residents and is the co-editor of 3 dermatology textbooks, including the recently published 2nd edition of Goodheart’s Same Site Differential Diagnosis, and has published over 50 journal articles.

  • Board-certified pediatric dermatologist.

  • Graduated from Emory University.

  • Earned her degree at rutgers–New Jersey Medical School in 2004.

  • Dr. Gonzalez accepted the prestigious pediatrics program at the Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York–Columbia University where she solidified her interest in treating skin disorders.

  • She then completed a dermatology residency at the top-ranked New York School of Medicine, followed by a clinical fellowship in pediatric dermatology.

Pedskin Research treatment for skin conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin, commonly found on the scalp, knees, elbows, and lower back.

It is caused by an overactive immune system, which leads to rapid skin cell growth and inflammation.

No, psoriasis is not contagious. It cannot be spread through physical contact.

Stress, infections, cold weather, dry skin, and certain medications can trigger psoriasis.

A dermatologist can diagnose psoriasis through a skin examination and, in some cases, a biopsy.

We offer treatment plans tailored to each child’s needs including prescription creams, phototherapy and systemic medications given via oral route or injection. We thoroughly discuss risks and benefits of all available treatment options with families and determine the best course for each individual child.

Yes, staying active is important. Ensure their skin stays moisturized and protected, especially in extreme weather.

While there is no specific diet for psoriasis, a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is beneficial for overall health.

Psoriasis is a lifelong condition, but symptoms can be managed effectively with the right treatment.

Yes, psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of other autoimmune diseases, including psoriatic arthritis.