Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious, inflammatory skin ailment which causes red, scaly and/or thickened patches to appear on one’s skin. It is a fairly common disorder which impacts about 2-3% of the population. Individuals impacted by this disorder exhibit an inflammatory response to an unusually rapid production of skin cells caused by hyperactive T cells (aka white blood cells). In fact, skin production is about seven times faster. The outer skin tends to be poorly formed and does not shed properly. As a result, dead cells pile up and and cause scaling.
Psoriasis can affect any part of one’s body including the knees, scalp, elbows, back, and even nails. It normally does not affect the face, however. Psoriasis is more prevalent in individuals with dry skin than those with oily or well moisturized skin, particularly after a cut or injury to the skin. The reason for this is that the infecting organism can thrive better under dry conditions than oily ones which resist infections. Both men and women in any age group are susceptible to psoriasis. In moderate to severe cases, joint problems may also develop resulting in a condition known as psoriatic arthritis. There is a genetic basis to psoriasis but its influence varies. It is believed that about 30 percent of people with this disorder also have a close family member such as a parent, child, or sibling who also suffer from this condition but the severity among family members may vary.
Various factors can trigger or worsen psoriasis. In about one-third of people affected by this disease, an injury such as cut or scrape to the skin is the triggering factor. Other factors include stress, alcohol, smoking, infections,and certain types of drugs like antimalarials, enzyme inhibitors, lithium, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
There are several kinds of psoriasis. The most common type manifest themselves as plaques
on the knees, elbows, back, and scalp. Flexural psoriasis occurs under armpits, groin creases, and areas with excess skin folds. Guttate psoriasis manifests itself as small, salmon pink colored drops on the skin. It normally affects children and is often caused by an infection. Exfoliative psoriasis covers 90% of the body life and impacts the temperature and hydration control mechanism of the skin. It is a rare but life threatening form of this ailment.
Treatment
The methods used to treat psoriasis vary and dermatologists often use trial and error to find the right kind of treatment for their patients. The application of topical agents, such as topical steroids, is probably the most common form of treatment. Ointment and creams containing coal tars are also very effective. Such creams include Keratolytics, Emollients, and Calcipotrienes. These creams help to reduce inflammation as well as soften and remove excess skin and plaque. Activiated Vitamin D and its associated analogues are also used to treat psoriasis as it helps to prevent skin cell growth. Sunshine is yet another effective remedy, although excessive exposure should be avoided to minimize the risk of skin cancer. For more severe cases of psoriasis, potent oral medications such as Acctane, Methotrexate, and Imuran can also be used under the care and supervision of a qualified dermatologist.
