What is Psoriasis? Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Psoriasis is a common skin disease that affects 1-3% of the population in our country. The disease is characterized by flare-ups and affects both men and women equally. It is marked by white-gray scaling similar to psoriasis and can appear at any age, though it most commonly starts in the 20s. In women, it is frequently observed during adolescence, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, while in men, it tends to appear during adolescence or periods of socio-economic stress.

What is Psoriasis?

Skin cells are formed in the deepest layer of the skin. These cells gradually move towards the skin’s surface, where they die and, over the course of daily activities, break down and shed. The shedding skin cells are replaced by new cells formed beneath the skin. The process of skin cell formation and shedding typically takes about 28 days. However, in psoriasis, this process is much faster. The cycle occurs approximately 10 times faster than normal, with shedding of skin cells taking just 2-6 days. As a result, dead skin cells accumulate on the surface. This leads to the characteristic appearance of psoriasis, with scaling and crusting caused by excessive production and shedding of skin cells in a continuous cycle.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic condition, and its exact cause is not fully understood. It is not caused by bacteria or viruses, so it is not contagious. One of the most common questions about psoriasis is whether it is genetic. One of the causes of psoriasis is genetic predisposition. Even if neither parent has psoriasis, a history of the condition in previous generations can lead to its development. Psoriasis is also more common in people who experience excessive sadness, stress, and depression. Weakened immune systems, excessive alcohol and tobacco use, and high body weight are also known triggers for the disease. Additionally, certain medications, such as iodide, antimalarial drugs, beta-blockers, and hypertension medications, can cause psoriasis as a side effect.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis-like scaling and crusting, especially on the knees and elbows. These skin lesions can also appear in the genital area, on the nails, and on the scalp.
Red patches with gray-white scales and crusting on the arms, legs, palms, and soles.
Pitting, thickening, and yellowing of the nails, along with swelling and redness around the nail area.
Dry skin, burning sensation, itching, and bleeding.
Pain, swelling, and redness in the joints.

Treatment of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a lifelong disease, but with the appropriate treatment, it can be managed. Early diagnosis makes it easier to control the disease. However, if the lesions and scaling cover more than 10% of the body surface, phototherapy or systemic treatment should be applied. Psoriasis treatment is individualized. Factors such as the extent of the disease on the skin, the patient's age, gender, and adherence to treatment play an important role in determining the type of treatment. If the lesions and scaling are limited to a small area, topical psoriasis medications or moisturizers are used. In cases where the disease is widespread, synthetic vitamin A-containing drugs, phototherapy, and certain cancer medications may be used.

Last Updated Date: 31 March 2020

Publication Date: 19 April 2018

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