Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder that causes normal skin cells to multiply up to 15-20 times faster than normal. This makes the skin build up into red raised patches covered with whitish-silver scales, that may itch or cause discomfort. Scales typically develop on joints, such as elbows and knees.
They may develop anywhere on the body, including the:
Less common types of psoriasis affect the nails, the mouth and the area around genitals.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune conditions are the result of the body attacking itself. In Psoriasis white blood cells known as t-cells mistakenly attack the healthy skin cells. In a normal body, t-cells defend the body from infections by attacking and destroying invading bacteria.
But in Psoriasis instead of protecting the body from invaders, it attacks healthy skin cells promoting inflammation (warm, red skin areas ) and also it speeds up the production of skin cells. i.e. 5-6days rather than 28days, causing new cells to develop too quickly. Skin cells are then pushed to the skin surface where they pile up resulting in scales and thickening of the skin.
Scientists believe that at least 10 percent of the general population inherits one or more of the genes that create a predisposition to Psoriasis.
But only two percent to three percent of the population develops the disease. This is thought to be because only two percent to three percent of people encounter the “right” mix of genetics and are exposed to triggers that lead to the development of Psoriasis.
Those who have a genetic disease but no family history, for example, may have inherited two genes from their father and two from their mother neither of whom had all four and therefore never developed the disease. If you have a strong familial history, your risk of developing Psoriasis is higher. Having one parent with Psoriasis increases your risk of getting the disease by 15 % and having two parents with Psoriasis increases your risk even more to 50%.
Identical twin studies suggest a 70% chance of a twin developing Psoriasis if the other twin has the disorder. The risk is around 20% for nonidentical twins.
Psoriasis typically starts or worsens because of a trigger that you may be able to identify and avoid. Factors that may trigger Psoriasis include:
Anyone can develop Psoriasis, but these factors can increase your risk of developing the disease:
People with HIV are more likely to develop Psoriasis than people with healthy immune systems are. Children and young adults with recurring infections, particularly strep throat, also may be at increased risk.
Stress can impact your immune system, high-stress levels may increase your risk of Psoriasis.
Excess weight increases the risk of Psoriasis. Lesions (plaques) associated with all types of Psoriasis often develop in skin creases and folds.
Smoking tobacco not only increases your risk of Psoriasis but also may increase the severity of the disease. Smoking may also play a role in the initial development of the disease.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder in which the immune system speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells. Normally, skin cells renew every 28–30 days, but in psoriasis they multiply much faster, sometimes within 5–6 days. This rapid growth leads to the accumulation of thick, red, scaly patches on the skin that may cause itching, burning, or discomfort.
No, psoriasis is not contagious. It cannot spread from one person to another through physical contact, sharing clothes, or touching the affected skin. Psoriasis develops because of immune system dysfunction and genetic factors, not due to infection.
Psoriasis develops due to an overactive immune response that mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This immune reaction triggers inflammation and speeds up skin cell production. Genetics, environmental triggers, infections, stress, and certain medications may also contribute to the development or worsening of psoriasis.
The symptoms of psoriasis can vary from person to person but commonly include:
Psoriasis can develop on many areas of the body, including:
Some patients may have psoriasis in only one area, while others may experience widespread skin involvement.
Certain factors may trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms. These include:
Avoiding triggers may help reduce flare-ups.
Genetics can play an important role in psoriasis. Research suggests that people with a family history of psoriasis have a higher risk of developing the condition. However, not everyone who inherits the genes will necessarily develop the disease. Environmental triggers also influence whether psoriasis appears.
Several factors may increase the risk of psoriasis, including:
These factors may either trigger psoriasis or worsen existing symptoms.
Yes. In some patients, psoriasis may lead to a condition called psoriatic arthritis. This condition causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent long-term joint damage.
Although psoriasis is a chronic condition, its symptoms can often be effectively managed with proper medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and individualized treatment approaches. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment can help reduce flare-ups and improve quality of life.
