Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder in which the immune system causes skin cells to grow too quickly, leading to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin.

• It is non-contagious.
• The condition often flares up periodically and may be triggered by stress, infections, or certain medications.

the causes of psoriasis:

1. Genetic Factors

• Psoriasis often runs in families.
• Certain genes make a person more susceptible to developing the disease.

2. Immune System Dysfunction

• Overactive T-cells attack healthy skin cells by mistake.
• This triggers inflammation and rapid skin cell growth.

3. Triggers (Do Not Directly Cause, But Can Worsen Psoriasis)

• Stress → physical or emotional stress can trigger flare-ups.
• Infections → streptococcal throat infection can trigger guttate psoriasis.
• Skin injuries → cuts, burns, or sunburn can provoke lesions (Koebner phenomenon).
• Medications → beta-blockers, lithium, antimalarials.
• Weather → cold, dry climates may worsen symptoms.
• Lifestyle factors → alcohol, smoking, obesity.

Common Symptoms:

1. Red, raised patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales
2. Itching, burning, or soreness
3. Cracked skin that may bleed
4. Dry or thickened skin
5. Nail changes
   • Pitting (small dents in nails)
   • Discoloration
   • Thickened or crumbling nails

Commonly Affected Areas:

• Elbows and knees
• Scalp
• Lower back
• Face, palms, and soles
• Skin folds (especially in inverse psoriasis)

Types of Psoriasis and Specific Symptoms

• Plaque psoriasis → large, raised red patches with silvery scales (most common)
• Guttate psoriasis → small, drop-shaped red spots, often triggered by infection
• Inverse psoriasis → smooth red patches in skin folds (armpits, under breasts, groin)
• Pustular psoriasis → white pus-filled blisters on red skin
• Erythrodermic psoriasis → widespread redness and scaling, can be life-threatening

Treatment for psoriasis:

1. Topical Treatments (for mild to moderate psoriasis)

• Corticosteroid creams → reduce inflammation and itching
• Vitamin D analogs (e.g., calcipotriol) → slow skin cell growth
• Coal tar or salicylic acid preparations → reduce scaling and thickness
• Moisturizers → reduce dryness and irritation

2. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

• Controlled exposure to UVB or PUVA light slows skin cell overproduction
• Often used when topical treatments are insufficient

3. Systemic Medications (for moderate to severe psoriasis)

• Methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin → suppress immune system to reduce inflammation
• Biologics (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept, ustekinumab) → target specific immune pathways involved in psoriasis

4. Lifestyle and Home Care

• Avoid triggers such as stress, infections, smoking, alcohol
• Maintain moisturized skin
• Gentle skin care to prevent irritation and injury
• Healthy diet and regular exercise may help reduce inflammation