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Psoriasis

What is psoriasis?
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Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells. This leads to the buildup of cells on the surface of the skin, causing scaling, inflammation, redness, and itching. It is non-contagious but can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.


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There are several different types of psoriasis:

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- Plaque psoriasis (Psoriasis vulgaris) is the most common form and causes raised, red patches covered with a silvery-white buildup of dead skin cells.

- Guttate psoriasis causes small, dot-like lesions often triggered by infections (like strep throat).

- Inverse psoriasis causes bright red, shiny lesions in skin folds (e.g., armpits, groin).

- Pustular psoriasis instead causes white pustules surrounded by red skin, may be localized or widespread.

- Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare, severe form involving widespread redness, shedding, and pain. Can be life-threatening.

- Psoriatic arthritis affects joints, causing swelling, stiffness, and pain.

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Psoriasis arises when the immune system inadvertently accelerates the production of skin cells, causing them to accumulate rapidly and form the characteristic red, scaly patches. Genetics play a prominent role: roughly 30 % of those affected have a close relative with the condition. At the same time, external factors such as stress, infections or certain medications can trigger or exacerbate symptoms.

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Although it may develop at any age, psoriasis most often first appears between 15 and 35 years. It affects around 2–3 % of people worldwide, occurs equally in men and women, and is somewhat more common among individuals with lighter skin tones.

Common locations where symptoms usually show up are elbows, face, feet, hands, knees, nails, scalp and skin folds.

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Common symptoms include:

• Silvery Scales
• Red, brown, or purple patches of skin
• Dry, Cracked Skin
• Patches of thick, raised skin (plaques)
• Itching
• Irritation, burning, or stinging
• Pustules or blisters
• Dry skin that may crack or bleed
• Pitted nails (small depressions on the surface of the nails)
• Flaking of dead skin