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Psoriasis: Fast Facts


Reviewed By: Mary Ellen Luchetti, M.D., AAD

  • Psoriasis is a common disorder marked by raised, inflamed lesions.

  • The lesions join together to form patches with distinct borders on the skin.

  • The lesions are covered with flaky scales due to the rapid turnover of cells in the top layer of skin (epidermis).

  • Psoriasis lesions may itch intensely.

  • Lesions vary in size and shape.

  • Lesions may occur anywhere, but usually affect the scalp, knees, elbows, naval area, lower back, buttocks or genitalia.

  • Arthritis may be associated with psoriasis.

  • Psoriasis is not contagious and may be minor or serious.

  • According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, about 2 percent of all people in the United States have psoriasis.

  • Most people develop the disease before the age of 40 years.

  • It is not known what causes the short cycling of skin cells that leads to psoriasis.

  • A faulty immune system seems to be involved in the abnormal process.

  • The development of the disease and flare-ups following remissions usually result following a trigger.

  • Potential triggers include injury, stress, infection and medications.

  • Psoriasis is usually diagnosed by a doctor during a physical examination.

  • If diagnosis is not definite, it can be confirmed with a skin biopsy.

  • There is no cure for psoriasis.

  • The goal of treatment is to clear lesions from the skin by reducing inflammation and slowing rapid cell growth and shedding.

  • Treatment may involve phototherapy, or controlled exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and topical or oral medications, or a combination of these factors, depending on the severity of the psoriasis.

  • Flare-ups of psoriasis can be prevented by identifying and avoiding triggers.

 

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Copyright (c) 2000-2009 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.