Fish treatment for psoriasis sufferers

People suffering from the skin conditions psoriasis and eczema are getting relief by placing their limbs in aquaria containing the suckermouthed cyprinid Garra rufa, according to a report in Newcastle's Metro.

It is claimed that the fish suck off dead skin cells and allow new skin to grow and that the German health authorities are covering the cost of treatment.

The fish, which comes from Jordan, Syria and Turkey grows to around 14cm and lives in hot pools where it is said to feed on the skin scales of bathers, reducing illnesses such as neurodermitis.

The treatment isn't cheap. "Depending on the extent of the problem, you need between 25-45 fish. I spent around 1,250 but it was definitely worth it", a patient told the Metro.

Thanks to PFK reader Kris Bolam for submitting this story.