Information About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition which appears as thick red, scaly areas or plaques most commonly on the elbows, knees and scalp. Any part of the skin surface may be involved and some people develop associated nail changes and arthritis.

It affects about 2% of the population although it differs in severity from one small insignificant patch to involvement of large areas of the skin causing considerable distress. It can be itchy but is not usually sore. Although it is predominantly a skin disease, it is the result of problems involving the immune system.

What is the cause of psoriasis?

The fundamental cause is unknown, but it is known to be genetic in origin (roughly one third of patients have a family history), and may be started by a variety of trigger factors. These include throat infections and certain drugs. Other factors which can aggravate psoriasis are excessive alcohol, and major life events such as stress, bereavement or pregnancy.

Psoriasis is very unpredictable. In some people it may resolve spontaneously but for most once it has started, it tends to stay.

Unfortunately psoriasis cannot be cured, but it can be managed. There are many different types of treatment from creams and ointments to tablets and Ultra-violet light. If you have psoriasis which is bothering you it is advisable to visit your GP and/or dermatologist for information and help on treatment.

Types of Psoriasis

There are a number of different types of psoriasis and these are some of the commoner ones:

Plaque Psoriasis: This is the most common variety, and appears as thick red  patches with silvery scales on top. It can be itchy and irritating, and is most common on the trunk, scalp, knees, elbows and genitalia.

Guttate Psoriasis: This usually affects children and may be triggered by a throat infection. It causes the appearance of small red spots over the trunk and limbs which last for a few weeks and then fade. Some children who have an episode of guttate psoriasis will go on to develop chronic plaque psoriasis in later years.

Nail Psoriasis: Characterised by pits or dimples appearing in the nail (fingernails or toenails). The nails may discolour and become thickened, and may crumble easily or become detached from the nail bed.

Scalp Psoriasis: Almost half the people that develop psoriasis suffer from this variety. It causes scaly red plaques on the scalp. The scale gets trapped by the hair and can become very thick and uncomfortable. It does not affect hair growth.

Pustular Psoriasis: This is a rare form of psoriasis which is generally seen on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It is characterised by the appearance of little white pustules on the skin. Despite their appearance, the pustules are sterile and are not the result of bacterial infection.

Psoriatic Arthritis: About 10-20% of people with psoriasis may develop an associated arthritis. This causes pain and swelling in the joints, accompanied by stiffness, particularly in the mornings. Most commonly affected sites are the hands, feet, lower back, neck and knees

Page created: 9 May 2008