Psoriasis 

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease characterized by red, inflamed patches covered with silvery-white scales. It occurs due to rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to thickened, scaly plaques. Psoriasis is not contagious and often follows a lifelong course with periods of flare-ups and remission.

Psoriasis 

What is Psoriasis?

In psoriasis, the immune system mistakenly speeds up skin cell production. Instead of the normal 3–4 weeks, new skin cells form in just a few days, causing build-up of dead cells on the skin surface.

Types of Psoriasis

  1. Plaque Psoriasis (Most common)

    • Red patches with silvery scales on elbows, knees, scalp, lower back

  2. Guttate Psoriasis

    • Small drop-like spots, often after throat infection

  3. Inverse Psoriasis

    • Smooth red patches in skin folds (groin, armpits)

  4. Pustular Psoriasis

    • Pus-filled blisters on inflamed skin

  5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis (Rare, severe)

    • Widespread redness and scaling; medical emergency

  6. Nail Psoriasis

    • Pitting, discoloration, thickening of nails

  7. Psoriatic Arthritis

    • Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling along with skin lesions

Causes & Triggers

  • Genetic predisposition

  • Immune system dysfunction

  • Stress

  • Infections (e.g., strep throat)

  • Skin injury (Koebner phenomenon)

  • Cold weather

  • Smoking and alcohol

  • Certain medicines (beta-blockers, lithium)

Common Symptoms

  • Red, raised patches with white/silvery scales

  • Itching or burning

  • Dry, cracked skin that may bleed

  • Thickened or pitted nails

  • Scalp scaling (dandruff-like)

  • Joint pain or stiffness (in psoriatic arthritis)

Risk Factors

  • Family history of psoriasis

  • Obesity

  • Smoking

  • Alcohol use

  • Chronic stress

  • Recent infections