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Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaly, inflamed patches on the skin. These patches, often red and covered with silvery scales, can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the elbows, knees, and scalp. It is a condition that can be both physically and emotionally distressing for those affected.
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Psoriasis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, speeding up the skin's regeneration process and causing cell buildup.
There are several types of psoriasis, with plaque psoriasis being the most common. Guttate psoriasis presents as small, drop-like lesions, and inverse psoriasis affects areas like the armpits and groin. Pustular psoriasis is another form that causes white pustules on the skin.
The symptoms of psoriasis can vary from mild to severe. Common signs include red patches of skin with thick, silvery scales, itching, pain, and sometimes bleeding. In some cases, psoriasis may also cause psoriatic arthritis, a condition that affects the joints, leading to pain and swelling.
While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are several treatments available to manage the condition. Topical treatments such as corticosteroid creams, vitamin D analogs, and coal tar can help reduce inflammation and slow the production of skin cells. For more severe cases, phototherapy (exposure to ultraviolet light) can help reduce symptoms. Systemic treatments, including biologics and oral medications, are used for more extensive psoriasis.
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Apr 05, 2025; 9:48am
