Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin condition in which the skin renews itself much faster than normal.
This leads to thick, well-defined red patches covered with silvery-white scales, most commonly seen on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. It tends to come and go in phases, with periods of flare and remission.
Overview
Causes
Psoriasis happens due to a combination of internal and external factors:
01
Immune system dysfunction
Overactive immune cells speed up skin cell turnover.
02
Genetic tendency
Often runs in families.
03
Common triggers
Stress (very common),Infections (especially throat infections),Skin injury (cuts, scratches – Koebner phenomenon),Certain medications (beta-blockers, lithium),Alcohol and smoking
Types
Types of Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis
most common; thick scaly plaques
Guttate psoriasis
small drop-like lesions, often after infection
Inverse psoriasis
occurs in folds; appears red and smooth
Pustular psoriasis
pus-filled lesions
Erythrodermic psoriasis
rare but severe, involves most of the body
WHAT TO EXPECT
Your Treatment Journey
Medical
Topical treatments (first line)
Corticosteroids – reduce inflammation
Vitamin D analogues (calcipotriol) – slow skin growth
Coal tar / salicylic acid – reduce scaling
Systemic therapy (moderate to severe cases)
Methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin
Biologics – targets therapies for long-term control
Procedural
Phototherapy (NB-UVB / PUVA)
Safe and effective for widespread psoriasis
Excimer laser
Useful for stubborn, localized plaques
FAQS
Common Questions
Can psoriasis be cured?
Psoriasis cannot be permanently cured, but it can be very well controlled, allowing long symptom-free periods.
Are steroid creams safe for long-term use?
They are safe when used correctly under supervision, but overuse can cause skin thinning and rebound flares.
What triggers psoriasis flares?
Common triggers include stress, infections, skin injury, certain medications, alcohol, and smoking.
Do I need regular follow-ups for chronic conditions?
Yes, regular follow-ups help track disease activity, adjust treatment, and monitor side effects, especially with long-term or systemic therapy
Explore Your Options
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