What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic condition characterized by scaling and inflammation of the skin. Psoriasis typically results from an abnormality in the immune system, of which its main function is to fight off infections. Even though, psoriasis is a long-term disorder, its symptoms may come and go. Genetic factors tend to predetermine the incidence of psoriasis.

Skin cells normally take 14 days to move from the basal layer to the stratum corneum, where it flakes off after 14 days. So, the skin cycle is normally 28 days.

In psoriasis, this cycle is 4 days instead of 28. Thus, the cells of the skin do not have enough time to mature. As a result, the stratum corneum becomes thick with extra skin cells that keep piling up over time and create a white, flaky layer.

What are the causes of Psoriasis?

• Genetic
• Immune disorder
• Flare-up of guttate (drop-shaped) lesions from infections

Other factors include:

• Pregnancy
• Endocrine changes
• Emotional stress
• Climate
• Certain medications

What are the signs and symptoms of psoriasis?

• Plaques with thick silver scales, commonly seen on the scalp, chest, elbows, knees, back and buttocks.
• These silver plaques may flake off or thicken. Fine bleeding occurs when scale is removed.
• Itching

How is psoriasis diagnosed?

Your doctor will diagnose psoriasis based on appearance of the skin lesions, history, and skin biopsy results. Uric acid levels are usually elevated in patients with psoriasis.

What are treatment options for psoriasis?

• Topical corticosteroids
• Antihistamines
• Oatmeal baths
• Emollients
• Aspirin to control pain with psoriatic arthritis
• Coal tar preparations
• Calcipotriene ointment reduces skin scale production
• Phototherapy: skin lesions may be exposed to ultraviolet A or ultraviolet B, alone or in combination with coal tar.
• Vitamin A derivatives may be used to treat extensive psoriasis, but has severe side effects and requires close monitoring.
• Immunosuppressant agents
• Biologic therapies

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