Psoriasis

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, leading to the rapid buildup of skin cells. This results in scaling on the skin’s surface and can cause redness and irritation. It is a common condition, with an estimated 2-3% of the global population affected. Psoriasis can appear at any age, though it often starts in early adulthood or between the ages of 15 and 35.

Symptoms

Psoriasis symptoms can vary in severity and may include:

• Plaques: Raised, red patches covered with a silvery-white scale are the hallmark of psoriasis. These plaques can appear on any part of the body but are commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
• Itching and burning: Affected areas may itch, burn, or feel sore.
• Dry, cracked Skin: Skin may become dry and cracked, sometimes bleeding.
• Nail changes: Psoriasis can affect the nails, leading to pitting, discoloration, or separation from the nail bed.
• Joint pain: In some cases, psoriasis is associated with psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Causes

The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors:

• Genetics: A family history of psoriasis increases the risk. Several genes have been linked to the condition, influencing immune system function and skin cell turnover.
• Immune system: Psoriasis is an auto-inflammatory disorder which leads to excessive and rapid cell turnover and inflammation.
• Environmental triggers: Factors such as stress, infections, skin injuries, certain medications, and climate changes can trigger or exacerbate psoriasis flare-ups.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of psoriasis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. The appearance and location of the skin lesions are usually sufficient for diagnosis. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Unfortunately, a cure for psoriasis is currently not available, but various treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups:

• Topical treatments: Medications applied directly to the skin, such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and tar preparations, can reduce inflammation and scaling.
• Phototherapy: Exposure to ultraviolet light under medical supervision can help slow down the rapid skin cell growth seen in psoriasis.
• Systemic medications: Systemic drugs are frequently used for the control of moderate to severe psoriasis. These medications can be taken orally or via injection.
• Combination therapy: Sometimes, a combination of treatments is used to achieve better results.
• Biologics: In the last decades or more, biologics have radically improved psoriasis. By targeting the inflammatory pathways of psoriasis, e.g blocking interleukin-17 and/or interleukin-23, these monoclonal antibodies substantially clear psoriasis, helping patients to achieve complete or almost complete remission and substantially improving their quality of lives.
• Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor: For patients who could not tolerate immunosuppression or have other medical conditions like liver problems, PDE4 inhibitors has shown modest improvement for psoriasis.

Prognosis

Psoriasis is a long-term condition that tends to go through periods of flare-ups and remission. While it can be challenging to manage, most people with psoriasis can find relief through appropriate treatments and lifestyle adjustments. Ongoing care with a healthcare provider is crucial for effectively managing the condition and addressing any complications that arise.

Psoriasis impacts more than just the skin; it can also affect a person’s quality of life and mental health. Our expert dermatologists at Skin Physicians are equipped to give you the necessary support and treatment options to lessen the symptoms of the condition.