Information all about Psoriasis

Sep 8
13:39

2010

Juliet Cohen

Juliet Cohen

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

Most of the time, the skin on the elbows and knees is affected, but psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body, including the scalp, fingernails and mouth, and even the skin over the joints. It can start at any age, from babies to the elderly.

mediaimage

Psoriasis is a chronic,Information all about Psoriasis Articles recurring skin disease. Psoriasis affects 1% to 3% of the world's population. It is characterized by periodic flare-ups of well defined, red patches covered by a silvery, flaky scale on the extensor surfaces and the scalp. It will often appear in the same place on both sides of the body. The patches can range in size from smaller than a dime to larger than a hand.

Psoriasis tends to run in families and it usually appears between the ages of 15 and 35. There are several types of psoriasis, the most common being chronic plaque psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is characterized by harshly demarcated erythematous scaling plaques that most commonly arise on the elbows and knees, and in the scalp and groin. There are many causes of psoriasis. The genes play an important part in making one prone to the development of psoriasis. Certain environmental triggers play a role in causing psoriasis in people who have these gene mutations. Immune system also causes of psoriasis.

In a usually functioning immune system, white blood cells produce antibodies to foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. These white blood cells also produce chemicals that aid in curative and fighting infective agents. But with psoriasis, special white blood cells called T-cells become overactive. About 8% of people with psoriasis of the skin may also have involvement of the joints. Joint involvement can cause pain and swelling (arthritis). Psoriasis is most at risk people who have family members with psoriasis, especially if they are exposed to stress, alcoholism, infections, medical treatment, or events such as divorce, bereavement or moving house.

There are different treatments available for people with psoriasis. Treatment recommendations usually vary depending on the rigidity and location of psoriasis, its blow on a person’s quality or way of life and other existing medical conditions. Body lotion can help to remove the scales. Corticosteroids are synthetic drugs that resemble naturally occurring hormones. Corticosteroids may also suppress the adrenal glands' production of natural steroids, which could leave the body susceptible to disease. Phototherapy (ultraviolet B, UVB) and photochemotherapy are both used for widespread psoriasis. Many patients find that natural sunlight also helps.