Psoriasis

Psoriasis is the most common autoimmune disease in the US, affecting approximately 7.5 million Americans.   It is caused by rapid growth of the cells which make up the top layer of skin, the epidermis. This leads to a constant turnover of cells which creates thick, flaky skin. This chronic genetic condition tends to go away then reoccur (relapse/remit).
The classic look of psoriasis is a red, raised and inflamed patch of skin with silvery linings within. These patches will sometimes bleed upon scratching. Psoriasis is not contagious and is not caused by an infection.

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 Common areas of involvement include the scalp, elbows, behind the ears, gluteul cleft, and around the umbilicus (belly button). Nails can also be affected, growing abnormally and become dysfigured.

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There are numerous speculations as to what causes skin cells to grow and overturn so quickly in psoriasis, however a precise cause has yet to be found. For the most part, psoriasis can be controlled with various treatments, but certain "triggers" may cause a flare. Triggers include personal stress, changes in environment/weather, medication,obesity, and smoking.

Psoriasis can also involve the joints, called psoriatic arthritis. This usually involves multiple joint most often in the fingers and toes. There may also be finger swelling (dactylitis) and inflammation of tendons (tenosynovitis). Psoriatic skin changes usually occur prior to joint involvement, and approximately 30% of people with psoriasis will develop some type on joint involvement.



Psoriasis affects all races and men and women are equally affected. Though not completely understood,it increases an individuals risk of stroke, diabetes, heart disease, and depression.

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Many people often get confused between psoriasis and eczema.Eczema is usually concentrated in areas like behind the knees and in front of elbows. It is often times associated with allergies and asthma.  Eczema skin patches are not as raised as psoriasis plaques and do and not easily bleed when scratched. 

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Though there is no cure for psoriasis, there are treatments which can lessen its severity. These include but are not limited to

•  Biologic Agents- medicines that are given through intravenous infusion
• Topical Steroids- placed on the plaques, these will decrease the inflammation and severity of plaques
• Systemic Treatment- taken either by mouth or via injection, these are used to suppress the immune system
• Phototherapy- involves exposing the affected skin to UV light in the hopes that it will slow the rapid growth of the skin cells.

Your doctor may help you decide which treatment is most appropriate based on the severity of your condition, how many/how large your plaques are, and if you have any other medical conditions that may be affected by treatment. Skin may become resistant to treatment over time so combination therapies (multiple types at once) may have to be used.

There have been a number of alternative/homeopathic remedies that several people with psoriasis claim have helped aleve their discomfort. This includes aloe vera, fish oils, and hydrotherapy. Though there is no scientific research identifying these as plausible therapies, if they help reduce signs and symptoms they can be used with caution. Prior to starting these regimens, consult a physician to go over their pros and cons.

If you are still unsure as to whether or not you have psoriasis or another skin condition, its best to seek medical advice.

For more information on psoriasis visit The National Psoriasis Foundation