Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the skin but can also impact the nails and joints.

It is characterized by red, scaly patches or plaques that can be itchy, painful, and may bleed or crack. The condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply rapidly and build up on the surface of the skin.

While the exact cause is still unknown, certain triggers such as stress, infections, injuries to the skin, and certain medications can worsen symptoms.

Psoriasis has been linked with other health conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression.

Although there is no cure for psoriasis yet, various treatment options are available to manage symptoms including topical creams, phototherapy, oral medications such as retinoids or immunosuppressants in severe cases and biologics specifically targeting cytokines involved in inflammation to regulate the immune system response.

A multidisciplinary approach involving dermatologists, rheumatologists and mental health professionals is crucial for successfully addressing this complex disease.