Łuszczyca
Objawy

Łuszczyca to przewlekła, autoimmunologiczna choroba zapalna skóry charakteryzująca się przyspieszonym cyklem odnowy naskórka (3-7 dni vs. 28 dni w warunkach fizjologicznych), co prowadzi do powstawania dobrze odgraniczonych, czerwonych, łuszczących się zmian pokrytych srebrzystobiałymi łuskami. Typowe lokalizacje zmian to łokcie, kolana, skóra głowy i dolna część pleców. Wyróżnia się kilka postaci klinicznych, m.in. łuszczycę plackowatą (80-90% przypadków), kropelkową, odwróconą, krostkową i erytrodermiczną, z których dwie ostatnie stanowią stany zagrożenia życia. Około 50% pacjentów ma zmiany paznokciowe (naparstkowanie, onycholiza, przebarwienia). Łuszczyca przebiega z okresami zaostrzeń i remisji, a czynniki wyzwalające obejmują infekcje (zwłaszcza paciorkowcowe), urazy skóry (zjawisko Koebnera), stres, warunki pogodowe, niektóre leki oraz używki (alkohol, tytoń). Nieleczona choroba może prowadzić do powikłań, takich jak wtórne infekcje, łuszczycowe zapalenie stawów (30% pacjentów), choroby sercowo-naczyniowe, metaboliczne, zapalne jelit, zaburzenia psychiczne i okulistyczne.

Łuszczyca: Objawy i progresja choroby

Łuszczyca to przewlekła choroba zapalna skóry, w której cykl życia komórek skóry ulega znacznemu przyspieszeniu, prowadząc do nagromadzenia martwych komórek na powierzchni naskórka. Jest to choroba autoimmunologiczna, w której układ odpornościowy atakuje zdrowe komórki skóry, powodując ich nadmiernie szybkie namnażanie się12. W normalnych warunkach cykl odnowy komórek skóry trwa około miesiąca, natomiast u osób z łuszczycą proces ten skraca się do zaledwie 3-7 dni1. Przyspieszona produkcja komórek powoduje, że nie są one w stanie w naturalny sposób złuszczać się z powierzchni skóry, co prowadzi do powstawania charakterystycznych zmian łuszczycowych2.

Charakterystyczne objawy łuszczycy

Łuszczyca objawia się najczęściej w postaci wyraźnie odgraniczonych, czerwonych, uniesionych plam pokrytych srebrzystobiałymi łuskami12. Zmiany te mogą się różnić wyglądem u poszczególnych pacjentów – od drobnych łusek przypominających łupież do rozległych wykwitów obejmujących znaczne obszary ciała1. U osób o ciemniejszym odcieniu skóry zmiany łuszczycowe mogą przybierać barwę fioletową, brązową lub szarą z szarymi łuskami1.

Główne objawy łuszczycy obejmują:

  • Uniesione, czerwone lub różowe plamy skórne pokryte srebrzystobiałymi łuskami1
  • Świąd skóry, któremu może towarzyszyć uczucie pieczenia lub kłucia1
  • Suchość skóry, która może pękać i krwawić1
  • Złuszczanie się martwego naskórka1
  • Zmiany w obrębie paznokci (wgłębienia, przebarwienia, kruchość)12

Typowe miejsca występowania zmian łuszczycowych to łokcie, kolana, dolna część pleców i skóra głowy, chociaż mogą one pojawić się na dowolnej części ciała12. W ciężkich przypadkach, skóra wokół stawów może pękać i krwawić, co powoduje dodatkowy dyskomfort i ból1.

Rodzaje łuszczycy i ich objawy

Istnieje kilka typów łuszczycy, z których każdy charakteryzuje się specyficznymi objawami:

Łuszczyca plackowata

Jest to najczęstsza postać łuszczycy, stanowiąca około 80-90% wszystkich przypadków12. Charakteryzuje się dobrze odgraniczonymi, czerwonymi, grubymi płytkami pokrytymi srebrzystymi łuskami. Zmiany te są zwykle symetryczne, występują najczęściej na łokciach, kolanach, skórze głowy i dolnej części pleców1. U większości pacjentów łuszczyca plackowata powoduje intensywny świąd, który może prowadzić do zadrapań i wtórnych infekcji1.

Łuszczyca kropelkowa

Ten typ łuszczycy charakteryzuje się małymi, kropelkowatymi zmianami o średnicy mniejszej niż 1 cm, które najczęściej pojawiają się na tułowiu, ramionach, nogach i skórze głowy12. Łuszczyca kropelkowa często występuje po infekcjach paciorkowcowych gardła i jest bardziej powszechna wśród dzieci i nastolatków1. W wielu przypadkach może ustąpić samoistnie po kilku tygodniach, ale czasami przechodzi w przewlekłą postać łuszczycy plackowatej1.

Łuszczyca odwrócona

Występuje w fałdach skórnych, takich jak pachy, pachwiny, pod piersiami czy między pośladkami1. Ze względu na wilgotne środowisko w tych obszarach, zmiany nie są pokryte łuskami, ale mają wygląd gładkich, czerwonych, błyszczących plam1. Łuszczyca odwrócona może być szczególnie niekomfortowa w gorącym klimacie ze względu na zwiększone tarcie i pocenie się1.

Łuszczyca krostkowa

Jest to rzadka, ale poważna forma łuszczycy, charakteryzująca się pojawieniem się wypełnionych ropą pęcherzyków (krostek) na zaczerwienionej skórze1. Krostki mogą pojawiać się cyklicznie co kilka dni lub tygodni. Podczas początku tych cykli łuszczyca krostkowa może powodować gorączkę, dreszcze, utratę wagi i zmęczenie1. Uogólniona łuszczyca krostkowa wymaga natychmiastowego leczenia, gdyż może zagrażać życiu12.

Łuszczyca erytrodermiczna

Jest to najrzadsza, ale potencjalnie zagrażająca życiu forma łuszczycy, która obejmuje prawie całą powierzchnię skóry1. Powoduje intensywny świąd, pieczenie oraz masywne złuszczanie się skóry w dużych płatach12. Łuszczyca erytrodermiczna może pojawić się nagle i wymaga natychmiastowej pomocy medycznej1.

Łuszczyca paznokci

U około 50% pacjentów z łuszczycą skóry występują również zmiany w obrębie paznokci1. Łuszczyca paznokci charakteryzuje się:

  • Punkcikowatymi zagłębieniami (tzw. naparstkowaniem)1
  • Oddzielaniem się płytki paznokciowej od łożyska (onycholiza)1
  • Żółto-czerwonymi przebarwieniami przypominającymi „plamy olejowe”1
  • Pogrubieniem i łuszczeniem się płytki paznokciowej1
  • Białymi plamami na płytce paznokciowej (leukonychia)1

W najcięższych przypadkach paznokcie mogą stać się grube, kruche i nieestetyczne, co nie tylko powoduje zakłopotanie, ale również może utrudniać chodzenie1.

Łuszczyca skóry głowy

Łuszczyca skóry głowy jest specyficzną odmianą łuszczycy plackowatej, która może obejmować części lub całą skórę głowy1. Powoduje powstawanie grubych, pokrytych łuskami zmian, które mogą być bardzo swędzące, ale czasem przebiegają bezobjawowo1. W skrajnych przypadkach może prowadzić do wypadania włosów, chociaż zazwyczaj jest to tylko tymczasowe1.

U osób z łuszczycą skóry głowy, łuski mogą przypominać łupież. Mogą one odklejać się warstwowo, powodując efekt łuszczenia, ale nie należy zdrapywać zmian, gdyż może to prowadzić do uszkodzenia skóry i nasilenia stanu zapalnego1.

Przebieg i progresja łuszczycy

Łuszczyca jest chorobą przewlekłą, która zazwyczaj utrzymuje się przez całe życie1. Charakteryzuje się ona naprzemiennymi okresami zaostrzeń (tzw. rzutami) i remisji, kiedy objawy ustępują lub znacznie się zmniejszają12.

Cykliczny charakter łuszczycy

Łuszczyca zazwyczaj przebiega cyklicznie – objawy mogą nasilać się przez kilka tygodni lub miesięcy, a następnie ustępować na pewien czas1. Okresy remisji mogą trwać od kilku miesięcy do nawet kilku lat, jednak najczęściej wynoszą od 1 do 12 miesięcy12. W trakcie remisji skóra może być całkowicie wolna od zmian łuszczycowych1.

Zaostrzenia choroby (rzuty) mogą pojawić się nagle i bez wyraźnej przyczyny, lub być wywoływane przez określone czynniki, nazywane czynnikami wyzwalającymi1. Niektóre osoby doświadczają objawów tylko raz, podczas gdy inne mają wielokrotne cykle zaostrzeń i remisji1.

Progresja choroby

Nie ma naukowych dowodów na to, że łuszczyca zawsze staje się cięższa z upływem czasu1. Jednak przebieg choroby może się zmieniać, nawet jeśli pacjent choruje na nią od dłuższego czasu1. Niektóre osoby mogą mieć łagodną postać łuszczycy przez wiele lat, która nagle, bez ostrzeżenia, przechodzi w umiarkowaną lub ciężką formę1.

Progresja łuszczycy jest trudna do przewidzenia i może być różna u różnych pacjentów1. Badacze uważają, że zrozumienie mechanizmów progresji łuszczycy może pomóc w przewidywaniu jej przebiegu i lepszym leczeniu zarówno samej łuszczycy, jak i powiązanych z nią chorób1.

Bez leczenia, przewlekły stan zapalny związany z łuszczycą może prowadzić do rozwoju chorób współistniejących1. Dlatego wczesne wdrożenie odpowiedniego leczenia jest kluczowe dla zapobiegania progresji choroby i jej powikłaniom1.

Czynniki wyzwalające zaostrzenia

Istnieje wiele czynników, które mogą wyzwalać zaostrzenia łuszczycy lub powodować jej pogorszenie1. Do najczęstszych czynników wyzwalających należą:

  • Infekcje – każda infekcja, w tym przeziębienia i grypa, może wyzwolić zaostrzenie łuszczycy1. Szczególnie paciorkowcowe zapalenie gardła często wyzwala pierwsze wystąpienie łuszczycy kropelkowej u dzieci12.
  • Uszkodzenia skóry – łuszczyca może pojawić się w miejscach, które zostały uszkodzone lub zranione. Jest to wynik tzw. zjawiska Koebnera, gdzie zadrapania, oparzenia słoneczne, ukąszenia owadów i szczepienia mogą wszystkie wyzwalać zaostrzenia łuszczycy12.
  • Stres – zarówno fizyczny, jak i emocjonalny stres może prowadzić do zaostrzeń łuszczycy12.
  • Warunki pogodowe – zimna pogoda może często powodować zaostrzenia łuszczycy z powodu mniejszej ilości światła słonecznego i wilgotności, cieplejszego i suchszego powietrza w pomieszczeniach, a także zwiększonego stresu i częstszych chorób1. Ciepła pogoda zazwyczaj poprawia stan łuszczycy ze względu na naturalne światło słoneczne i wyższą wilgotność1.
  • Niektóre leki – w tym leki beta-adrenolityczne, niesteroidowe leki przeciwzapalne, lit czy leki przeciwmalaryczne mogą wyzwalać zaostrzenia łuszczycy1.
  • Alkohol i palenie tytoniu – spożywanie alkoholu, szczególnie w dużych ilościach, oraz palenie tytoniu może wyzwalać lub nasilać objawy łuszczycy i utrudniać leczenie1.

Identyfikacja indywidualnych czynników wyzwalających zaostrzenia łuszczycy i ich unikanie może pomóc w lepszym kontrolowaniu choroby1.

Konsekwencje nieleczonej łuszczycy

Łuszczyca, mimo że jest przede wszystkim chorobą skóry, może mieć poważne konsekwencje zdrowotne, jeśli nie jest odpowiednio leczona. Przewlekły stan zapalny związany z łuszczycą może prowadzić do różnych powikłań i chorób współistniejących1.

Łuszczyca a choroby współistniejące

Osoby z łuszczycą są narażone na zwiększone ryzyko rozwoju różnych chorób współistniejących, w tym:

  • Łuszczycowe zapalenie stawów – około 30% osób z łuszczycą rozwija łuszczycowe zapalenie stawów, które powoduje ból, sztywność i obrzęk stawów12. Choroba ta najczęściej pojawia się około 10 lat po wystąpieniu pierwszych objawów łuszczycy skórnej1.
  • Choroby sercowo-naczyniowe – przewlekły stan zapalny związany z łuszczycą zwiększa ryzyko chorób serca i naczyń krwionośnych1.
  • Choroby metaboliczne – w tym cukrzyca typu 2 i zespół metaboliczny1.
  • Choroby zapalne jelit – jak choroba Leśniowskiego-Crohna1.
  • Zaburzenia psychiczne – łuszczyca może prowadzić do obniżonej samooceny, depresji i lęku12.
  • Choroby oczu – takie jak zapalenie spojówek, zapalenie powiek i zapalenie błony naczyniowej oka1.

Wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie łuszczycy może pomóc zmniejszyć ryzyko rozwoju tych chorób współistniejących1.

Łuszczyca a jakość życia

Łuszczyca może znacząco wpływać na jakość życia pacjentów. Wpływ ten obejmuje zarówno aspekty fizyczne, jak i psychologiczne:

  • Dyskomfort fizyczny – świąd, pieczenie i ból związane z łuszczycą mogą utrudniać codzienne funkcjonowanie i zakłócać sen12.
  • Wpływ na wygląd – widoczne zmiany skórne mogą powodować zakłopotanie, niską samoocenę i problemy z obrazem własnego ciała1.
  • Wpływ na relacje społeczne – pacjenci mogą doświadczać stygmatyzacji, izolacji społecznej i trudności w relacjach międzyludzkich1.
  • Wpływ na zdrowie psychiczne – badania wskazują, że osoby z łuszczycą mają wyższe wskaźniki depresji w porównaniu z osobami bez tej choroby1. Prawie 90% osób z łuszczycą odczuwa bezradność i zakłopotanie, co wpływa na ich ogólne samopoczucie emocjonalne1.
  • Wpływ na życie zawodowe – łuszczyca może wpływać na wydajność w pracy, prowadzić do absencji i ograniczać możliwości zawodowe1.

Odpowiednie leczenie łuszczycy, oprócz łagodzenia objawów fizycznych, może również znacząco poprawić jakość życia pacjentów1.

Powikłania związane z łuszczycą

Nieleczona lub źle kontrolowana łuszczyca może prowadzić do różnych powikłań:

  • Wtórne infekcje skóry – pęknięcia i uszkodzenia skóry mogą prowadzić do zakażeń bakteryjnych1.
  • Łuszczyca uszna – łuszczyca w uchu może powodować nagromadzenie się łusek wewnątrz kanału słuchowego, prowadząc do bólu, świądu, blokady woskowinowej i utraty słuchu1.
  • Zmiany pigmentacyjne – po wygojeniu plam łuszczycowych mogą pozostać brązowe lub blade przebarwienia skóry (przebarwienia lub odbarwienia pozapalne)1.
  • Problemy z paznokciami – łuszczyca może prowadzić do zniekształcenia, przebarwienia lub utraty paznokci1.
  • Ciężkie formy łuszczycy – nieleczona łuszczyca może przekształcić się w cięższe formy, takie jak łuszczyca erytrodermiczna lub krostkowa, które mogą zagrażać życiu1.

Regularne monitorowanie i odpowiednie leczenie łuszczycy są niezbędne, aby zapobiegać tym powikłaniom i kontrolować przebieg choroby1.

Diagnostyka i leczenie łuszczycy

Rozpoznanie łuszczycy

Diagnoza łuszczycy opiera się głównie na badaniu fizykalnym i wywiadzie medycznym1. Lekarz przeprowadza dokładne badanie skóry, skóry głowy i paznokci, a także zbiera informacje dotyczące historii choroby pacjenta i występowania łuszczycy w rodzinie1.

W niektórych przypadkach, aby potwierdzić diagnozę i wykluczyć inne choroby skóry, lekarz może zalecić biopsję skóry – pobranie małego fragmentu zmienionej chorobowo skóry do badania pod mikroskopem1.

Lekarz może również ocenić stopień nasilenia łuszczycy, co jest istotne dla wyboru odpowiedniego leczenia. Łuszczyca może być klasyfikowana jako łagodna, umiarkowana lub ciężka w zależności od powierzchni ciała zajętej przez zmiany oraz wpływu choroby na jakość życia pacjenta1.

Dostępne metody leczenia

Chociaż nie ma obecnie lekarstwa na łuszczycę, dostępnych jest wiele metod leczenia, które mogą skutecznie kontrolować objawy choroby i poprawiać jakość życia pacjentów1. Wybór metody leczenia zależy od typu łuszczycy, nasilenia objawów, ogólnego stanu zdrowia pacjenta oraz jego preferencji1.

Dostępne metody leczenia łuszczycy obejmują:

  • Leczenie miejscowe – w tym kremy i maści zawierające kortykosteroidy, analogi witaminy D, retinoidów oraz inhibitorów kalcyneuryny. Jest to zwykle leczenie pierwszego rzutu w przypadkach łagodnej do umiarkowanej łuszczycy1.
  • Fototerapia (leczenie światłem) – ekspozycja skóry na kontrolowane dawki naturalnego lub sztucznego światła ultrafioletowego (UV). Jest to leczenie pierwszego rzutu w przypadku umiarkowanej do ciężkiej łuszczycy, stosowane samodzielnie lub w połączeniu z lekami1.
  • Leki ogólnoustrojowe – w tym leki doustne i iniekcje, takie jak metotreksat, cyklosporyna, retinoidy oraz leki biologiczne. Są one zazwyczaj zalecane w przypadkach umiarkowanej do ciężkiej łuszczycy, które nie odpowiadają na leczenie miejscowe lub fototerapię1.

W przypadku łuszczycy krostkowej lub erytrodermicznej zazwyczaj konieczne jest rozpoczęcie leczenia od silniejszych leków ogólnoustrojowych1.

Znaczenie wczesnego leczenia

Wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie łuszczycy jest niezwykle ważne z kilku powodów:

  • Zapobieganie progresji choroby – wczesne leczenie może pomóc zapobiec przekształceniu się łagodnej łuszczycy w formy umiarkowane lub ciężkie1.
  • Zmniejszenie ryzyka chorób współistniejących – odpowiednie leczenie może zmniejszyć stan zapalny związany z łuszczycą, co potencjalnie zmniejsza ryzyko rozwoju chorób współistniejących, takich jak łuszczycowe zapalenie stawów czy choroby sercowo-naczyniowe1.
  • Poprawa jakości życia – skuteczne leczenie może złagodzić objawy fizyczne, takie jak świąd i ból, oraz poprawić wygląd skóry, co może znacząco wpłynąć na samopoczucie psychiczne i jakość życia pacjenta1.
  • Zapobieganie powikłaniom – wczesne leczenie może zapobiec powikłaniom związanym z łuszczycą, takim jak wtórne infekcje czy uszkodzenia paznokci1.

Warto podkreślić, że nawet przy skutecznym leczeniu, łuszczyca zazwyczaj powraca. Dlatego tak ważne jest regularne kontrolowanie stanu choroby i dostosowywanie leczenia do bieżących potrzeb pacjenta1.

Radzenie sobie z łuszczycą na co dzień

Życie z łuszczycą może być wyzwaniem, ale istnieje wiele strategii, które mogą pomóc w radzeniu sobie z chorobą na co dzień i poprawie jakości życia1.

Strategie samoopieki

Oprócz przestrzegania zaleceń lekarskich dotyczących leczenia, pacjenci z łuszczycą mogą podejmować różne działania, aby lepiej kontrolować swoją chorobę:

  • Codzienna pielęgnacja skóry – regularne nawilżanie skóry może pomóc zmniejszyć suchość, świąd i łuszczenie się. Zaleca się stosowanie łagodnych, bezzapachowych produktów do pielęgnacji skóry1.
  • Unikanie czynników wyzwalających – identyfikacja i unikanie indywidualnych czynników wyzwalających zaostrzenia łuszczycy, takich jak stres, określone leki czy warunki pogodowe1.
  • Odpowiednia dieta – chociaż nie ma jednoznacznych dowodów na to, że dieta bezpośrednio wpływa na łuszczycę, niektórzy pacjenci zauważają związek między określonymi pokarmami a zaostrzeniami choroby. Dieta bogata w przeciwzapalne składniki, takie jak kwasy omega-3, może być pomocna1.
  • Umiarkowana ekspozycja na słońce – krótkie, regularne ekspozycje na światło słoneczne mogą pomóc w łagodzeniu objawów łuszczycy. Ważne jest jednak, aby unikać nadmiernej ekspozycji, która może prowadzić do oparzeń słonecznych i pogorszenia objawów1.
  • Aktywność fizyczna – regularne ćwiczenia mogą pomóc w utrzymaniu zdrowej wagi, co jest istotne, gdyż otyłość może nasilać objawy łuszczycy1. Jednak należy wybierać aktywności o niskim obciążeniu stawów, zwłaszcza jeśli występuje również łuszczycowe zapalenie stawów1.

Radzenie sobie ze stresem

Stres jest znanym czynnikiem wyzwalającym zaostrzenia łuszczycy, a sama choroba może również powodować stres, tworząc błędne koło1. Dlatego tak ważne jest rozwijanie skutecznych strategii radzenia sobie ze stresem:

  • Techniki relaksacyjne – medytacja, głębokie oddychanie czy joga mogą pomóc zmniejszyć poziom stresu1.
  • Regularna aktywność fizyczna – ćwiczenia mogą nie tylko poprawić ogólny stan zdrowia, ale również zmniejszyć poziom stresu1.
  • Wsparcie psychologiczne – terapia, grupy wsparcia czy poradnictwo psychologiczne mogą pomóc w radzeniu sobie z emocjonalnymi aspektami życia z przewlekłą chorobą1.
  • Hobby i zainteresowania – angażowanie się w przyjemne aktywności może odwrócić uwagę od choroby i zmniejszyć poziom stresu1.

Wsparcie i edukacja

Edukacja na temat łuszczycy i dostęp do wsparcia mogą znacząco pomóc w radzeniu sobie z chorobą:

  • Edukacja pacjenta – zrozumienie choroby, jej przebiegu i dostępnych opcji leczenia może pomóc pacjentom aktywnie uczestniczyć w zarządzaniu swoim zdrowiem1.
  • Grupy wsparcia – dzielenie się doświadczeniami z innymi osobami cierpiącymi na łuszczycę może dostarczyć emocjonalnego wsparcia i praktycznych porad1.
  • Regularne wizyty lekarskie – regularne kontrole u dermatologa lub innego specjalisty są kluczowe dla monitorowania przebiegu choroby i dostosowywania leczenia1.

Pamiętaj, że łuszczyca, mimo że jest chorobą przewlekłą, może być skutecznie kontrolowana. Z odpowiednim leczeniem, strategiami samoopieki i wsparciem, większość pacjentów z łuszczycą może prowadzić pełne i aktywne życie1.

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 12.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Psoriasis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840
    In psoriasis, the life cycle of your skin cells greatly accelerates, leading to a buildup of dead cells on the surface of the epidermis. […] Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk and scalp. […] Psoriasis is a common, long-term (chronic) disease with no cure. It can be painful, interfere with sleep and make it hard to concentrate. The condition tends to go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a while. […] Common signs and symptoms of psoriasis include: A patchy rash that varies widely in how it looks from person to person, ranging from spots of dandruff-like scaling to major eruptions over much of the body. […] Cyclic rashes that flare for a few weeks or months and then subside.
  • #1
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/psoriasis/causes/
    Psoriasis occurs when skin cells are replaced more quickly than usual. […] However, in people with psoriasis, this process only takes about 3 to 7 days. As a result, cells that are not fully mature build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, causing flaky, crusty patches covered with scales. […] This causes the deepest layer of skin to produce new skin cells more quickly than usual, triggering the immune system to produce more T-cells. […] Many people’s psoriasis symptoms start or get worse because of a certain event, called a trigger. Knowing your triggers may help you avoid a flare-up.
  • #1 Psoriasis: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes, Types & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6866-psoriasis
    Psoriasis causes patches of red, scaly skin. It happens because your body has an overactive immune system. Symptoms of psoriasis include thick areas of discolored skin covered with scales. These thick, scaly areas are called plaques. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition, which means it can flare up unexpectedly and there’s no cure. Symptoms of psoriasis on your skin include plaques. Plaques look like a rash or a raised area of thick skin. The skin on the plaque is discolored. The plaque is scaly or flaky and sheds easily. An early sign of psoriasis is small bumps. The bumps grow, and scales form on top. The surface of the plaque might shed, but the scales beneath them will stick together. If you scratch your rash, the scales may tear away from your skin. This can cause bleeding. As the rash continues to grow, lesions (larger areas of skin damage) can form. Symptoms of psoriasis can range from mild to severe. In addition to skin plaques or a rash, you might have symptoms that include itchy skin, cracked, dry skin, skin pain, nails that are pitted, cracked or crumbly, and joint pain. If you scratch your plaque, you could break open your skin, which could lead to an infection. An over-reactive immune system that creates inflammation in your skin causes psoriasis. Your over-reactive immune system causes the timeline of new skin cell development to change to three to four days. The speed of new cells replacing old cells creates scales and frequent skin shedding on top of skin plaques. A flare-up of psoriasis symptoms can last a couple of weeks to a few months. If your symptoms of psoriasis don’t improve after treatment, or if you have large areas of involvement (10% of your skin or more), your healthcare provider may recommend treatments such as light therapy, PUVA, retinoids, immune therapies, methotrexate, or cyclosporine. There isn’t a cure for psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic condition, which means that symptoms may come and go throughout your life.
  • #1 Psoriasis: Causes, Triggers, Treatment, and More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis
    Psoriasis causes symptoms such as scaly, dry, or itchy skin. Theres no cure, but certain lifestyle changes and medications can help. You can also try to track and identify your possible triggers. […] Inflammation and redness around the scales are fairly common. Typical psoriatic scales are whitish-silver and develop in thick, red patches. However, on darker skin tones, they can also appear more purplish, dark brown with gray scales. Sometimes, these patches will crack and bleed. […] Psoriasis symptoms differ from person to person and depend on the type of psoriasis you have. Areas of psoriasis can be as small as a few flakes on your scalp or elbow, or cover the majority of your body. […] The most common symptoms of plaque psoriasis include raised, inflamed patches of skin that appear red on light skin and brown or purple on dark skin, whitish-silver scales or plaques on the red patches or gray scales on purple and brown patches, dry skin that may crack and bleed, soreness around patches, itching and burning sensations around patches, thick, pitted nails, and painful, swollen joints.
  • #1 About Psoriasis
    https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/
    Psoriasis is a chronic disease where skin cells build up quickly, typically causing red or discolored, scaly, and itchy patches on the skin. It is not contagious and can vary in severity. […] Symptoms of psoriasis include: Red, brown, or purple patches of skin, Patches of thick, raised skin (plaques), Itching, Irritation, burning, or stinging, Pustules or blisters, Dry skin that may crack or bleed, Changes to nails, Flaking of dead skin. […] Symptoms often start between ages 15 and 25 but can start at any age. Men, women, and children of all skin colors can get psoriasis. […] Psoriasis plaques occur because the overactive immune system speeds up skin cell growth. Normal skin cells completely grow and shed (fall off) in a month. With psoriasis, skin cells do this in only three or four days. Instead of shedding, the skin cells pile up on the surface of the skin.
  • #1 Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms: What to Look For
    https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-signs-symptoms
    Psoriasis is a chronic immune system disease that makes your skin cells multiply too fast. The signs and symptoms of psoriasis can vary, depending on the type of psoriasis you have. […] The most common type of psoriasis is called plaque psoriasis, and the most common psoriasis symptoms are: […] Skin rashes or patches. These may start as small bumps and turn into larger patches that are red, dark pink, or purple and covered in loose, silver, white, or gray-colored scales. These scaly areas are called plaques. In severe cases, the plaques grow and merge into one another, covering large areas. You are most likely to find them on your scalp, elbows, knees, or lower back. […] Itchy, painful skin. The inflamed skin may crack or bleed, especially if you scratch it. That can lead to infection and, in severe cases, cause severe pain, swelling, and fever.
  • #1
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/psoriasis/symptoms/
    Psoriasis typically causes patches of skin that are dry and covered in scales. […] Some people find their psoriasis causes itching or soreness. […] Most cases of psoriasis go through cycles, causing problems for a few weeks or months before easing or stopping. […] Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. […] Its symptoms are dry skin lesions, known as plaques, covered in scales. […] The plaques can be itchy or sore, or both. In severe cases, the skin around your joints may crack and bleed. […] Scalp psoriasis is a type of plaque psoriasis. It can occur on parts of your scalp or on the whole scalp. It causes patches of skin covered in thick scales. […] Some people find scalp psoriasis extremely itchy, while others have no discomfort. […] In extreme cases, it can cause hair loss, although this is usually only temporary.
  • #1 Psoriasis – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psoriasis
    Psoriasis is a long-lasting, noncontagious autoimmune disease characterized by patches of abnormal skin. These areas are red, pink, or purple, dry, itchy, and scaly. Psoriasis varies in severity from small localized patches to complete body coverage. Injury to the skin can trigger psoriatic skin changes at that spot, which is known as the Koebner phenomenon. […] The five main types of psoriasis are plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic. Plaque psoriasis, also known as psoriasis vulgaris, makes up about 90% of cases. It typically presents as red patches with white scales on top. Areas of the body most commonly affected are the back of the forearms, shins, navel area, and scalp. Guttate psoriasis has drop-shaped lesions. Pustular psoriasis presents as small, noninfectious, pus-filled blisters. Inverse psoriasis forms red patches in skin folds. Erythrodermic psoriasis occurs when the rash becomes very widespread and can develop from any of the other types. Fingernails and toenails are affected in most people with psoriasis at some point in time. This may include pits in the nails or changes in nail color.
  • #1 7 Telltale Symptoms of Psoriasis: Allure Dermatology: Dermatologists
    https://www.alluredermny.com/blog/7-telltale-symptoms-of-psoriasis
    Most people with plaque psoriasis have intense itching. Itching poses a big problem that needs treatment because scratching to relieve the itch damages your skin and leads to psoriasis flare-ups and pain. […] In severe cases, the dry plaques may crack and bleed. This can signal the start of deep cracks and open sores that are hard to heal. […] About half of people with psoriasis develop symptoms on their nails, usually affecting several fingernails or toenails. Nail symptoms may appear along with plaque psoriasis. Theyre also a common sign of psoriatic arthritis. […] Nail psoriasis causes severe enough pain to limit your hand or foot use. Pustular psoriasis is known for causing sore, painful skin around the pustules. […] The thickened patches of plaque psoriasis often cause pain, especially if injury occurs due to scratching. […] You will develop joint pain if you have psoriatic arthritis (psoriasis and arthritis). Psoriatic arthritis is similar to rheumatoid arthritis as it causes joint inflammation and swelling that typically begins in the small joints of your hands and feet.
  • #1
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/psoriasis/symptoms/
    In about half of all people with psoriasis, the condition affects the nails. […] Psoriasis can cause your nails to develop tiny dents or pits, become discoloured or grow abnormally. […] Nails can often become loose and separate from the nail bed. In severe cases, nails may crumble. […] Guttate psoriasis causes small (less than 1cm) drop-shaped sores on your chest, arms, legs and scalp. […] This type of psoriasis sometimes occurs after a streptococcal throat infection and is more common among children and teenagers. […] Inverse psoriasis is made worse by friction and sweating, so it can be particularly uncomfortable in hot weather. […] Generalised pustular psoriasis is a rare and serious form of psoriasis that usually needs emergency treatment. […] The pustules may reappear every few days or weeks in cycles. During the start of these cycles, von Zumbusch psoriasis can cause fever, chills, weight loss and fatigue. […] Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare form of psoriasis that affects nearly all the skin on the body. This can cause intense itching or burning. Erythrodermic psoriasis can come on suddenly and may need emergency medical treatment.
  • #1 Psoriasis – guttate Information | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/psoriasis-guttate
    Guttate psoriasis is a skin condition in which small, red, scaly, teardrop-shaped spots with silvery scale appear on the arms, legs, and middle of the body. Guttate psoriasis is usually seen in people younger than 30, especially in children. The condition often develops suddenly. It usually appears after an infection, most notably strep throat caused by group A streptococcus. Guttate psoriasis is not contagious. This means it can’t spread to other people. […] Symptoms may include: Itching, Spots on the skin that are pinkish-red and look like teardrops, Spots may be covered with silver, flaky skin called scales, Spots usually occur on the arms, legs, and middle of the body (the trunk), but may appear in other body areas. […] Guttate psoriasis may clear completely following treatment, especially phototherapy treatment. Sometimes, it may become a chronic (lifelong) condition, or worsen to the more common plaque-type psoriasis.
  • #1 Psoriasis: Symptoms and Complications
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/psoriasis-symptoms-2788277
    Bumps resulting from a guttate psoriasis rash can be described as: Small […] Raised […] Pink […] Teardrop-shaped. […] The rash can appear suddenly on the torso, arms, or legs, usually following a viral or bacterial infection like strep throat, chickenpox, or the common cold. It is more common in children given that they are more prone to these infections. […] Inverse psoriasis typically occurs behind the ears, under the breasts, between the buttocks, or in the groin or armpits. […] Because these areas tend to be moist, the patches won’t be scaly. Rather, skin affected by inverse psoriasis appears: Smooth […] Red […] Glistening. […] Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare and severe form of the disease characterized by the massive shedding of skin from all over the body. Rather than smaller scales, the skin will come off in large sheets.
  • #1 Psoriasis: Symptoms and Complications
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/psoriasis-symptoms-2788277
    Psoriasis in the ear can be problematic as the flakes can gradually accumulate inside the ear canal. Symptoms may include pain, itching, ear wax blockage, and hearing loss. […] More than 50% of people with skin psoriasis also have nail psoriasis, characterized by the overproduction of keratinocytes in the nail matrix. […] The symptoms of nail psoriasis are similar to other nail diseases, including onychomycosis (nail fungus). They include: Pitting (small dents or pits on the surface of the nail plate) […] Distal onycholysis (lifting of the nail from the nail bed) […] „Oil drops” (a translucent, yellow-red discoloration in the nail bed) […] Subungual hyperkeratosis (thickening and scaling of the nail) […] Leukonychia (white patches on the nail plate). […] At its worst, nail psoriasis can cause the nail to become thick, crumbly, and unsightly. This may not only cause embarrassment but interfere with a person’s ability to walk.
  • #1 6 signs you may have psoriasis | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NE
    https://www.nebraskamed.com/health/conditions-and-services/dermatology/6-signs-you-may-have-psoriasis
    Psoriasis flakes can resemble dandruff. Layers peel off, which causes the scaling effect. Its best to avoid picking or peeling psoriasis scales as that can trigger flare-ups. […] Yes, psoriasis can affect the nails, and its possible to have nail psoriasis without psoriasis on the skin. It can also signify having psoriatic arthritis, though many patients with nail psoriasis do not have joint involvement. […] With nail psoriasis, there are some common nail changes such as pits in the nails, which look like tiny dents, says Dr. Lonowski. […] Psoriatic arthritis refers to an autoimmune arthritis that some with psoriasis on the skin may have, says Dr. Lonowski. Its estimated that psoriatic arthritis affects between 5% to 30% of patients with psoriasis. […] Identifying and treating psoriasis as early as possible is critical. Theres no cure for psoriasis, but symptoms can be managed and controlled.
  • #1 Psoriasis Symptoms | Northwestern Medicine
    https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/dermatology/psoriasis/symptoms
    Symptoms of psoriasis may depend on the type of psoriasis you have, but all types involve patches or spots of inflamed and red skin. Other symptoms may include: Layers of silver or white, made up of dead skin cells […] Extremely dry skin […] Cracking and bleeding […] Smooth, shiny red skin […] Skin that looks sunburned […] Fluid-filled blisters […] Intense itching […] Pain, tenderness or a stinging sensation […] Shedding of sheets of skin […] Irritation in certain areas: knees, elbows, hands, nails, feet, scalp, lower back and genitals. Complications can include: Joint inflammation and pain […] Muscle weakness […] Fatigue […] Fever and chills […] Rapid pulse […] Loss of appetite. Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that can begin at any age. Psoriasis affects nearly equal numbers of men and women.
  • #1 Psoriasis: Symptoms, types, and treatments
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/52457
    Psoriasis can go away for months or years, but it usually flares up again at some point. Periods without symptoms are called remission. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, most remission periods last 1-12 months. […] Psoriasis flares can be unpredictable and vary in duration. However, psoriasis is a lifelong condition. Remission periods between flares typically last 1-12 months.
  • #1 How long will I have to treat my psoriasis?
    https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scaly-skin/psoriasis/diagnosis-and-treatment-of-psoriasis/how-long-will-i-have-to-treat-my-psoriasis
    Psoriasis is often a lifelong condition that requires a long-term treatment strategy. Psoriasis tends to come and go unexpectedly. People often have periods when psoriasis calms down. Some may see clear or nearly clear skin during these periods. Psoriasis can also flare unpredictably. […] Treating psoriasis can keep it under control, helping you avoid serious flares and preventing the psoriasis from becoming more severe. […] At times, treatment can lead to clear skin and no psoriasis symptoms. The medical term for this is remission. A remission can last for months or years; however, most last from 1 to 12 months. […] Psoriasis is notoriously unpredictable, so its impossible to know who will have a remission and how long it will last. […] Even when psoriasis clears, its likely to return. When it does, treatment can help control it so that your psoriasis doesnt worsen.
  • #1 Psoriasis Symptoms | psoriasisSPEAKS
    https://www.psoriasis.com/about-psoriasis/psoriasis-symptoms
    Itching caused by psoriasis can be challenging. For some, the constant intense itching associated with psoriasis, known as psoriasis itch, can be hard to manage. […] One feature of psoriasis is that its recurring, often seasonally. Other times, the appearance or reappearance of your psoriasis symptoms can be unpredictable, with patterns or triggers changing over time. When your symptoms suddenly reappear or worsen, these are called flare-ups. […] You may not have to suffer every time one occurs. Working with your doctor can help you make lifestyle choices to better manage flare-ups.
  • #1 How Does Psoriasis Progress?
    https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-progression
    The symptoms of psoriasis impact everyone differently. You might have a couple of irritated patches of skin, while someone else may have a serious outbreak of lesions all over their body. […] A progressive disease or health condition is one that gets worse over time. Theres no scientific proof that psoriasis always becomes more severe. But it can change, even if youve had it for a while. […] Some people have symptoms once, while others have cycles where they flare up then go away. Or your psoriasis symptoms could stick around. Its also possible to have a mild form of the skin condition for years that becomes moderate or severe without warning. […] Whether your psoriasis is mild, moderate, or severe, inflammation is a constant with the condition and could lead to other health issues. […] Around 30% of people with psoriasis will end up with psoriatic arthritis. This type of arthritis, which triggers joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, usually appears 10 years after psoriasis forms.
  • #1 How Does Psoriasis Progress?
    https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-progression
    Right now, researchers dont fully understand why some mild psoriasis worsens, calling it a major research gap. They say learning more about progression can help them predict what may happen and better treat psoriasis and other related illnesses. […] We do know that things in your day-to-day life, like changes in the weather or your mood, can lead to a psoriasis flare or make one worse.
  • #1 The Importance of Early Treatment in Psoriasis and Management of Disease Progression – JDDonline – Journal of Drugs in Dermatology
    https://jddonline.com/articles/the-importance-of-early-treatment-in-psoriasis-and-management-of-disease-progression-S1545961618P0737X
    Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated, inflammatory disease that if left untreated can result in prolonged subclinical inflammation that affects a variety of organs, including the heart, liver, kidney, and intestines, as well as joints and muscles. Relatedly, psoriasis significantly increases patients risks for developing certain comorbidities. Disease progression in psoriasis is unpredictable, and some patients have mild disease that is stable for many years, while in others, mild disease quickly progresses to moderate-to-severe psoriasis. […] In some cases, patients develop only mild disease that is relatively stable over many years, while in other cases, mild disease can quickly progress to moderate-to-severe psoriasis. […] As psoriasis progresses in patients with chronic disease, the risk for prolonged inflammation affecting other organs, including the heart, liver, kidneys, and intestines, as well as joints and muscles, significantly increases.
  • #1 Causes and Triggers
    https://www.psoriasis.org/causes/
    Psoriasis triggers vary from person to person. Common psoriasis triggers include: […] Psoriasis can appear in areas of the skin that have been injured or harmed. This is a result of the Koebner [KEB-ner] phenomenon, where scratches, sunburns, bug bites, and vaccinations can all trigger psoriasis flares. […] Anything that can affect the immune system can trigger psoriasis. That is why you may experience a flare following an ear infection, bronchitis, tonsillitis, or respiratory infection. There is a connection between streptococcus infection (strep throat) and guttate psoriasis, as it often triggers the first onset of guttate psoriasis in children. […] The weather may trigger a flare. Cold weather can often cause psoriasis flares due to less sunlight and humidity, heated and drier indoor air, as well as stress and illness. Warm weather can often improve psoriasis because of natural sunlight and higher humidity. […] Although it is less common, some people with psoriasis suspect that allergies, certain foods, alcohol, or environmental factors trigger their psoriasis.
  • #1 Psoriasis – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psoriasis
    Psoriasis is generally thought to be a genetic disease that is triggered by environmental factors. If one twin has psoriasis, the other twin is three times more likely to be affected if the twins are identical than if they are nonidentical. This suggests that genetic factors predispose to psoriasis. Symptoms often worsen during winter and with certain medications, such as beta blockers or NSAIDs. Infections and psychological stress can also play a role. The underlying mechanism involves the immune system reacting to skin cells. Diagnosis is typically based on the signs and symptoms. […] There is no known cure for psoriasis, but various treatments can help control the symptoms. These treatments include steroid creams, vitamin D3 cream, ultraviolet light, immunosuppressive drugs, such as methotrexate, and biologic therapies targeting specific immunologic pathways. About 75% of skin involvement improves with creams alone. The disease affects 24% of the population. Men and women are affected with equal frequency. The disease may begin at any age, but typically starts in adulthood. Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of psoriatic arthritis, lymphomas, cardiovascular disease, Crohn’s disease, and depression. Psoriatic arthritis affects up to 30% of individuals with psoriasis.
  • #1 Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms: What to Look For
    https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-signs-symptoms
    Any infection, including colds and flus, might trigger a psoriasis flare-up. Strep throat can trigger guttate psoriasis, especially in children. […] If you have psoriasis, you have extra reason to protect your skin. Any bruise, scrape, bite, rash, or sunburn can trigger a flare-up by causing skin inflammation. […] Emotional stress can make autoimmune disorders like psoriasis worse. […] Drinking, especially heavy drinking, may trigger or worsen symptoms and interfere with treatments. […] Using tobacco or being around secondhand smoke raises your risk of getting psoriasis and makes psoriasis symptoms worse. […] The most common signs of psoriasis are patches of scaly, itchy skin that can crack and bleed. The patches can look pink, red, brown, purple, or gray, depending on your skin tone. Some less common forms of psoriasis have different symptoms, such as small red dots or smooth red patches. Psoriasis is sometimes mixed up with other skin disorders, such as eczema, but your doctor should be able to tell the differences.
  • #1 Psoriasis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840
    Psoriasis is thought to be an immune system problem that causes skin cells to grow faster than usual. In the most common type of psoriasis, known as plaque psoriasis, this rapid turnover of cells results in dry, scaly patches. […] The cause of psoriasis isn’t fully understood. It’s thought to be an immune system problem where infection-fighting cells attack healthy skin cells by mistake. […] Many people who are predisposed to psoriasis may be free of symptoms for years until the disease is triggered by some environmental factor. […] Anyone can develop psoriasis. About a third of instances begin in childhood. […] These factors can increase the risk of developing the disease: Family history. The condition runs in families. […] If you have psoriasis, you’re at greater risk of developing other conditions, including: Psoriatic arthritis, which causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in and around the joints. […] Temporary skin color changes (post-inflammatory hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation) where plaques have healed. […] Eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis and uveitis. […] Mental health conditions, such as low self-esteem and depression.
  • #1 What is Plaque Psoriasis? | BIMZELX® (bimekizumab‐bkzx)
    https://www.bimzelx.com/plaque-psoriasis/about-plaque-psoriasis
    Plaque psoriasis, the most common form of psoriasis, is a chronic autoimmune disease. While its exact cause is unknown, overactivity from your immune system drives the inflammation that can lead to the plaques, pain, redness, flaking, and itching on your skin. […] Moderate plaque psoriasis covers 3%-10% of the skin’s surface, while severe cases affect more than 10%. […] Daily life stress can lead to a flare-up. And stress about the flare-up can make things worse. Look for ways to reduce the amount of everyday stress in your life as best you can. […] Studies have shown that people with psoriasis are at a greater risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as vision problems and heart disease. Be sure to talk to your doctor about these potential health risks. […] Moderate plaque psoriasis covers 3%-10% of the skin’s surface, while severe cases affect more than 10%. If you fall into either of these categories, ask your dermatologist if BIMZELX could help get you on the road to clearer skin.
  • #1 About Psoriasis
    https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/
    Psoriatic disease is lifelong, and symptoms may resolve and recur throughout the lifetime. […] While there is no cure for psoriasis, treatments today are more effective than ever before and research into new treatments, as well as a cure, is ongoing. Treating psoriasis can help improve symptoms and may decrease the associated inflammation that can lead to psoriasis comorbidities such as psoriatic arthritis, heart disease, and depression.
  • #1 10 Signs It’s Time to Escalate Your Psoriasis Treatment
    https://creakyjoints.org/psoriasis/signs-to-escalate-psoriasis-treatment/
    When you think about psoriasis, flaky skin or plaques might come to mind. However, psoriasis is not just skin-deep; it is a disease that can impact your entire body, inside and out. […] While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, certain treatments can help keep symptoms under control, per the National Institutes of Health (NIH). […] If you notice psoriasis lesions appearing in new areas of your body, this may be a sign that your current treatment isn’t effective enough. […] If you’re experiencing a dip in your quality of life due to psoriasis, it’s time to talk to your doctor about escalating your treatment. […] If psoriasis is impacting your quality of life, making your everyday living uncomfortable or simple to-dos into hassles, talk to your doctor. […] About a third of patients with psoriasis will go on to develop psoriatic arthritis, but generally there’s a delay of seven to 10 years, says Dr. Khattri.
  • #1 Patient education: Psoriasis (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/psoriasis-beyond-the-basics
    Psoriasis is usually a lifelong condition and is not currently curable, although the severity of the disease can improve or worsen over time and can be controlled with treatment. […] In people with certain forms of the disease, itching or pain and stiffness is severe and disabling. Some people with visible psoriasis lesions have feelings of embarrassment about their appearance. Stress, anxiety, loneliness, and low self-esteem can occur as a result. […] People with psoriasis have higher rates of depression compared with those without the condition.
  • #1 What Is Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis?
    https://www.cimzia.com/plaque-psoriasis/what-is-pso
    In fact, up to 30% of people with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis. […] Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause painful inflammation in the joints, fingers, and toes. Symptoms of joint pain and swelling, along with psoriasis and nail changes, may indicate psoriatic arthritis. […] Over 90% of people with psoriasis view their condition as problematic in their daily life. […] Up to 30% of people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis. […] Nearly 90% of people with psoriasis feel helpless and embarrassed, with impact to their overall emotional well-being, according to a survey by the National Psoriasis Foundation.
  • #1 Psoriasis | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2013/0501/p626.html
    Psoriasis causes significant social morbidity. In one survey, 79 percent of patients thought that psoriasis negatively affected their lives by causing problems with work, activities of daily living, and socialization. Three-fourths of these patients felt unattractive, and more than one-half were depressed. Increasing disease severity is associated with lower income, consulting multiple physicians, and reduced satisfaction with treatment. […] Treatment goals include improvement of skin, nail, and joint lesions plus enhanced quality of life. Most patients with psoriasis have mild to moderate disease, affecting less than 5 percent of the body surface area and sparing the genitals, hands, feet, and face. These patients can often be treated successfully with topical therapies, including corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, tazarotene, and calcineurin inhibitors. […] Patients with more severe psoriasis involving more than 5 percent of the body surface area or involving the hands, feet, face, or genitals are generally treated with phototherapy in combination with systemic therapies.
  • #1 How long will I have to treat my psoriasis?
    https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scaly-skin/psoriasis/diagnosis-and-treatment-of-psoriasis/how-long-will-i-have-to-treat-my-psoriasis
    One of three things happens when you stop treatment: You may stay clear and have no psoriasis symptoms (remission). Your psoriasis may return, looking and feeling much like it did before (relapse). The psoriasis may return and be worse than before (rebound). […] When psoriasis rebounds, it may become a more serious type of psoriasis. A person who had plaque (pronounced plack) psoriasis may suddenly have pustular psoriasis or erythrodermic psoriasis.
  • #1 Psoriasis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355845
    You and your health care provider will choose a treatment approach based on your needs and the type and severity of your psoriasis. […] People with pustular or erythrodermic psoriasis usually need to start with stronger (systemic) medications. […] In any situation, the goal is to find the most effective way to slow cell turnover with the fewest possible side effects. […] Coping with psoriasis can be a challenge, especially if the affected skin covers a large area of your body or is visible to other people. […] The ongoing, persistent nature of the disease and the treatment challenges only add to the burden.
  • #1 Psoriasis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355845
    Your health care provider will ask questions about your health and examine your skin, scalp and nails. […] Psoriasis treatments aim to stop skin cells from growing so quickly and to remove scales. Options include creams and ointments (topical therapy), light therapy (phototherapy), and oral or injected medications. […] Which treatments you use depends on how severe the psoriasis is and how responsive it has been to previous treatment and self-care measures. […] Even with successful treatment, usually the disease returns. […] Light therapy is a first line treatment for moderate to severe psoriasis, either alone or in combination with medications. […] If you have moderate to severe psoriasis, or if other treatments haven’t worked, your health care provider may prescribe oral or injected (systemic) drugs.
  • #1 Psoriasis: Symptoms Treatments – Utah Valley Medical Spa
    https://uvderm.com/concerns/psoriasis/
    Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling on the skins surface. This buildup of cells causes inflammation and redness around the scales. Psoriasis can affect any body part but is most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. While it can be uncomfortable and unsightly, psoriasis is not contagious. […] The symptoms of psoriasis vary depending on the type but generally include: Red patches of skin covered with thick scales. Dry or cracked skin that may bleed. Itching, burning, or soreness around affected areas. Thickened or ridged nails. […] A dermatologist can diagnose psoriasis through a physical examination and sometimes a biopsy to rule out other conditions.
  • #1 Patient education: Psoriasis (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/psoriasis-beyond-the-basics
    Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder that causes areas of thickened, inflamed, red skin, often covered with silvery scales. Children and adolescents can develop psoriasis, but it occurs primarily in adults. Psoriasis is not an infection, and it is not contagious. […] The severity of psoriasis is determined by how much of the body’s surface is covered and how much it affects a person’s quality of life. Psoriasis is not curable, although many treatments are available to reduce the symptoms and appearance of the disease. […] Symptoms of psoriasis include: Areas of skin that are dry or red, usually covered with silvery-white scales, and sometimes with raised edges; Rashes on the scalp, genitals, or in the skin folds; Itching and skin pain; Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness; Nail abnormalities, such as pitted, discolored, or crumbly nails.
  • #1 Psoriasis – myDr.com.au
    https://mydr.com.au/skin-hair/psoriasis-what-you-need-to-know/
    Some types of psoriasis are associated with generalised symptoms such as fever and complications such as infection, arthritis and even heart problems. […] Psoriasis can usually be diagnosed based on your symptoms and the appearance of the skin and nails. […] Although there is no cure for psoriasis, in most cases the disease can be well controlled. […] It may be necessary to try different treatments or use a combination of treatments to get the best control. […] People with psoriasis can help control their symptoms with some lifestyle measures. […] Using soap substitutes is another simple way to help skin symptoms. […] Regular exposure to sunlight for short periods can also help psoriasis. But its important to ask your doctor about the amount of sunlight that is safe, as excessive sun exposure can trigger symptoms and also cause sunburn and skin damage. […] While generally effective, these medicines can have potentially serious side effects, so close monitoring by your doctor is needed.
  • #1 Psoriasis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take
    https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take
    Experience symptoms such as itchy or burning skin. […] Psoriasis can affect a persons day-to-day life, including work and sleep. […] Obesity makes the symptoms of psoriasis worse. […] Some studies suggest that excessive alcohol consumption aggravates symptoms. […] Try to identify things that trigger psoriasis flares and work to avoid them. Some people have found that stress, cold weather, skin injuries, certain medicines, and infections spark flares. […] Psoriasis can affect a persons mental health, increasing the risk of anxiety and depression.
  • #1 Psoriasis Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment | The Dermatology Center Of IndianaThe Dermatology Center of IndianaToggle the Mobile Menu
    https://dermindy.com/psoriasis-signs-symptoms-and-treatment/
    About 7.5 million Americans, and 125 million people worldwide, are living with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease with no definitive cure, so those who have it will have it for life. However, there are ways to manage symptoms with the right treatments. […] Prescription medications that can help include corticosteroids and other topical treatments. Corticosteroid creams, ointments, or sprays can relieve the discomfort of a psoriasis flare-up by reducing inflammation and soothing irritation. […] There are also many other topical treatments available, including coal tar, Vitamin D analogs, or salicylic acid. […] There are several non-medication treatments you can consider. […] While there is currently no evidence pointing to diet as a trigger for psoriasis, some patients do notice a correlation between certain foods they eat and their flare-ups, which could be a result of a food allergy or the inflammatory nature of psoriasis. Eating foods that reduce inflammation, such as those high in Omega-3 fatty acids, may be helpful.
  • #1 Psoriatic Arthritis: Symptoms and Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/13286-psoriatic-arthritis
    Psoriatic arthritis symptoms can make it painful or difficult to use your joints. This can make it hard to get enough exercise. Talk to a healthcare provider about low-impact exercises that put less pressure on your joints. […] You should expect to manage your symptoms for a long time (maybe the rest of your life). Some people experience long periods of time between flares, but theres no cure for psoriatic arthritis. […] Visit a healthcare provider if you notice new rashes or other symptoms on your skin or if youre experiencing joint pain. Talk to your provider if your psoriatic arthritis symptoms are changing, flaring up more often or getting more severe. […] Psoriatic arthritis symptoms can range from mild to severe. You might never experience severe symptoms. But theres a chance your symptoms will vary between flares, often with seemingly no cause or reason. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic (long-term) condition. In that sense, its serious youll have to manage symptoms for a long time, maybe for the rest of your life. But between flares, you should be able to participate in all your usual activities.
  • #1 Psoriasis Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment | The Dermatology Center Of IndianaThe Dermatology Center of IndianaToggle the Mobile Menu
    https://dermindy.com/psoriasis-signs-symptoms-and-treatment/
    Psoriasis can flare up when the immune system reacts to a trigger, such as illness, stress, exposure to hot or cold temperatures, contact with an allergen, or even trauma to the skin, such as a burn or scrape. […] Psoriasis can lead to other health conditions, including – but rarely – psoriatic arthritis, which can cause symptoms of arthritis in the joints. Psoriatic arthritis affects about 30 percent of individuals with psoriasis. Psoriasis can also affect fingernails and toenails, causing pain, pitting of the nail, separation of the nail from the nail bed, or coloration changes. […] The symptoms of psoriasis can come and go, but the onset of symptoms, or flare-ups, can vary in severity and be triggered by different things. One common trigger is hot temperatures, such as warm weather in the summer months. Individuals with psoriasis often experience flare-ups when they’re exposed to the sun or from the friction and sweat caused by exercise or summer activities like swimming and hiking.
  • #1 Psoriasis Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment | The Dermatology Center Of IndianaThe Dermatology Center of IndianaToggle the Mobile Menu
    https://dermindy.com/psoriasis-signs-symptoms-and-treatment/
    Finally, starting a meditation routine, exercising regularly, or adjusting your lifestyle to reduce day-to-day stresses can help reduce psoriasis triggers as anxiety and stress are thought to contribute to psoriasis flare-ups. […] Light therapy has been found to be effective in treating psoriasis, but the type and duration of this phototherapeutic treatment varies from patient to patient depending on the severity of your psoriasis.
  • #1 Psoriasis: Symptoms and Treatment | Lupton Dermatology
    https://www.luptondermatology.com/conditions/psoriasis
    Psoriasis presents itself in various forms, including: […] What are the Symptoms of Psoriasis? Red, inflamed skin. Silvery-white scales. Itching or burning sensation. Dry, cracked skin. Thickened or pitted nails. Joint pain and swelling in some cases. […] Psoriasis is a chronic condition, meaning it doesn’t have a cure. However, it can be managed effectively with treatments and lifestyle adjustments. Many people with psoriasis lead healthy, fulfilling lives by finding the right approach to control flare-ups. […] Stress is known to trigger or worsen psoriasis flare-ups. Finding effective stress management techniques, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies, can be beneficial. Discussing stress management strategies with your healthcare team, including your dermatologist, can contribute to better psoriasis control.
  • #1 10 Signs It’s Time to Escalate Your Psoriasis Treatment
    https://creakyjoints.org/psoriasis/signs-to-escalate-psoriasis-treatment/
    Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis may include joint pain, stiffness, discoloration or redness near affected joints, pain or tenderness where tendons and ligaments meet the bones, swelling in your fingers and toes, psoriasis rash, nail psoriasis, and fatigue, per the Cleveland Clinic. […] If you’re experiencing other complications like this in addition to your psoriasis, speak to a doctor. […] People with psoriasis are 1.5 times more likely to experience depressive symptoms than the general population and the prevalence of anxiety and suicidal ideation is higher in patients with psoriasis (20 to 50 percent and 12.7 percent, respectively) than those without it, according to a 2022 study in the journal General Hospital Psychiatry. […] Itchiness, discomfort, and pain from psoriasis can disrupt your sleep patterns. […] If you’ve been consistently using topical treatments without significant improvements, that might be a sign that a more robust treatment approach like systemic medications is needed to better control your condition.
  • #1 Psoriatic Arthritis: Symptoms and Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/13286-psoriatic-arthritis
    It can be extremely frustrating to manage psoriatic arthritis. You might feel like youre dealing with two conditions at the same time the skin and nail symptoms of psoriasis and joint issues caused by arthritis. Your healthcare provider will help you find treatments that manage your symptoms during flares. Theyll also suggest ways you can keep your body healthy and strong to support your joints and skin.
  • #1 Psoriasis Symptoms and Treatment: What to Know | Columbia University Irving Medical Center
    https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/psoriasis-symptoms-and-treatment-what-know
    While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, we can offer patients a wide variety of treatments to suit each individual case. […] When a patient is diagnosed with psoriasis, the prognosis is good. Psoriasis is a chronic disease, but it usually responds well to treatment. […] Psoriasis is a generalized inflammatory state that often causes other problems beyond skin lesions. For example, around 30% of psoriasis patients have psoriatic arthritis. The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are joint pain and joint deformity. […] Psoriasis is also associated with depression and metabolic syndrome or obesity.
  • #2 Psoriasis – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psoriasis
    Psoriasis is generally thought to be a genetic disease that is triggered by environmental factors. If one twin has psoriasis, the other twin is three times more likely to be affected if the twins are identical than if they are nonidentical. This suggests that genetic factors predispose to psoriasis. Symptoms often worsen during winter and with certain medications, such as beta blockers or NSAIDs. Infections and psychological stress can also play a role. The underlying mechanism involves the immune system reacting to skin cells. Diagnosis is typically based on the signs and symptoms. […] There is no known cure for psoriasis, but various treatments can help control the symptoms. These treatments include steroid creams, vitamin D3 cream, ultraviolet light, immunosuppressive drugs, such as methotrexate, and biologic therapies targeting specific immunologic pathways. About 75% of skin involvement improves with creams alone. The disease affects 24% of the population. Men and women are affected with equal frequency. The disease may begin at any age, but typically starts in adulthood. Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of psoriatic arthritis, lymphomas, cardiovascular disease, Crohn’s disease, and depression. Psoriatic arthritis affects up to 30% of individuals with psoriasis.
  • #2 Psoriasis 101: Causes, Symptoms and Appearance | CeraVe
    https://www.cerave.com/skin-smarts/skin-concerns/psoriasis/psoriasis-101-what-it-is-what-causes-it-what-does-it-look-like
    Signs of psoriasis can appear on the face (especially around the eyebrows, between the nose and upper lip and on the forehead) as well as the body (most commonly on the knees, elbows and lower back). Psoriasis symptoms can include skin flaking, redness and irritation, as well as raised patches of silvery scales. […] Dermatologists and researchers have yet to pinpoint the exact cause of psoriasis, but it is generally believed this rapid overproduction of skin cells (and associated redness and inflammation) is a form of auto-immune disease. […] A chronic skin condition, psoriasis can clear and then flare up for no apparent reason, although several triggers have been identified. Environmental factors like sun exposure and cold, dry weather can cause an outbreak, as can lifestyle choices such as smoking, drinking alcohol and eating certain foods. […] If youre wondering how to get rid of psoriasis, unfortunately, there is no permanent psoriasis cure yet. However, psoriasis symptoms may clear up for extended periods of time before they come back.
  • #2 Psoriasis – Dermatologic Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/psoriasis-and-scaling-diseases/psoriasis
    Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease that manifests most commonly as well-circumscribed, erythematous papules and plaques covered with silvery scales. Symptoms are usually minimal, but mild to severe itching may occur. Some people also develop psoriatic arthritis. Psoriasis is hyperproliferation of epidermal keratinocytes combined with inflammation of the epidermis and dermis. Lesions are either asymptomatic or pruritic and are most often localized on the scalp, extensor surfaces of the elbows and knees, sacrum, buttocks (commonly the gluteal cleft), and genitals. The disease can be widespread, involving confluent areas of skin extending between these regions. Psoriasis typically manifests as plaques covered with thick, silvery, shiny scales. Psoriasis plaques are elevated, palpable lesions 10 mm in diameter. Among the various psoriasis subtypes, plaque psoriasis accounts for about 90%; lesions are discrete, erythematous papules or plaques covered with thick, silvery, shiny scales. Lesions appear gradually and remit and recur spontaneously or with the appearance and resolution of triggers. Arthritis develops in 5 to 30% of patients and can be disabling (psoriatic arthritis); joint destruction may ultimately occur. Psoriasis is rarely life-threatening but can affect a patient’s self-image.
  • #2 Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms: What to Look For
    https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-signs-symptoms
    Problems with your fingernails and toenails. They might change color and get pits. The nails may also begin to crumble or detach from the nail bed. About half of people with plaque psoriasis have nail trouble. […] Psoriasis also can come with psoriatic arthritis, which causes achy, swollen joints. Between 10% and 30% of people with psoriasis also have this painful joint condition. […] Psoriasis is a chronic condition that may get better for a while then flare up again for weeks or months at a time. […] While it’s not always clear why flare-ups happen, they can be linked with certain triggers. Those vary from person to person. If you can figure out your triggers, you might be better able to control your psoriasis symptoms. […] Because psoriasis is an immune system problem, flare-ups are commonly linked to changes in your health or environment that affect your overall immune system or cause skin inflammation.
  • #2 Plaque Psoriasis – Treatment, Causes, Symptoms | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/care/dermatology/services/psoriasis/plaque
    The most common type of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis involves inflamed, raised, scaly patches that form on the skin, often causing pain and itching. […] The symptoms of plaque psoriasis include raised, scaly patches of inflamed skin can appear anywhere on the body and can cause pain and itching. They most often form on the torso, scalp, elbows, and knee, and they typically develop in the same areas on the right and left side of the body. […] In people with lighter skin tones, these plaques look red and are covered with dead skin cells that appear silvery white. In people with dark skin tones, the plaques may look thicker and appear dark gray, purple, or brown.
  • #2 7 Telltale Symptoms of Psoriasis: Allure Dermatology: Dermatologists
    https://www.alluredermny.com/blog/7-telltale-symptoms-of-psoriasis
    Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that can make you miserable with intense itching and sometimes pain. But its also much more than a bothersome rash. […] People who have psoriasis have it for their lifetime. While the condition is active, it affects your quality of life, from disrupting your sleep and making it hard to concentrate to causing extreme embarrassment over your appearance. […] Early treatment intervention goes a long way toward keeping psoriasis under control. Dont wait to schedule an appointment if you have any of these seven telltale symptoms. […] Plaque psoriasis affects 80%-90% of people with psoriasis, making it the most common type. This condition begins when skin cells (keratinocytes) grow faster than usual, forming a thickened area of dry skin thats red and inflamed.
  • #2 Psoriasis – Skin Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/skin-disorders/psoriasis-and-scaling-disorders/psoriasis
    Psoriasis persists throughout life but may come and go. Symptoms of psoriasis are often diminished during the summer when the skin is exposed to bright sunlight. […] About 5 to 30% of people with psoriasis develop arthritis (psoriatic arthritis). Psoriatic arthritis causes joint pain and swelling. […] Psoriasis may flare up for no apparent reason or as a result of a variety of circumstances. […] Flare-ups often result from conditions that irritate the skin, such as minor injuries and severe sunburn. […] Flare-ups are more common in the winter, after drinking alcohol, and after stressful situations. […] Some uncommon types of psoriasis can have more serious effects. […] Erythrodermic psoriasis causes all of the skin on the body to become red and scaly. […] Pustular psoriasis is another uncommon form of psoriasis. […] Guttate psoriasis is an uncommon form of psoriasis in which multiple, small patches (plaques) appear suddenly, usually on the trunk in children and young adults after a strep throat infection.
  • #2 What is Psoriasis? Treatment, Types, Symptoms, Causes & Contagious
    https://www.rxlist.com/what_is_psoriasis/drugs-condition.htm
    Plaque psoriasis, the most common type, will last for a person’s lifetime and the symptoms can vary in severity. Guttate psoriasis may spontaneously go away or it can progress into chronic plaque psoriasis. Generalized pustular psoriasis, a rare but serious form of the illness, can be unstable. […] Psoriasis rarely causes death, though erythrodermic psoriasis or generalized pustular psoriasis can be life-threatening if an infection develops.
  • #2 Psoriasis: Symptoms and Complications
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/psoriasis-symptoms-2788277
    Erythrodermic psoriasis can also cause: Severe itching and pain […] Tachycardia (abnormally rapid heart rate) […] Fluctuations in body temperature […] Dehydration. […] If left untreated, erythrodermic psoriasis can be life-threatening, leading to severe infections (such as sepsis or pneumonia) or congestive heart failure.
  • #2 Psoriasis Types, Symptoms & Causes | NIAMS
    https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis
    Psoriasis is a chronic (long-lasting) disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly. Patches of skin become scaly and inflamed, most often on the scalp, elbows, or knees, but other parts of the body can be affected as well. […] The symptoms of psoriasis can sometimes go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months followed by periods when they subside or go into remission. […] Symptoms of psoriasis vary from person to person, but some common ones are: Patches of thick, red skin with silvery-white scales that itch or burn, typically on the elbows, knees, scalp, trunk, palms, and soles of the feet. Dry, cracked skin that itches or bleeds. Thick, ridged, pitted nails. Poor sleep quality. […] The symptoms of psoriasis can come and go. You may find that there are times when your symptoms get worse, called flares, followed by times when you feel better.
  • #2 How long will I have to treat my psoriasis?
    https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scaly-skin/psoriasis/diagnosis-and-treatment-of-psoriasis/how-long-will-i-have-to-treat-my-psoriasis
    Psoriasis is often a lifelong condition that requires a long-term treatment strategy. Psoriasis tends to come and go unexpectedly. People often have periods when psoriasis calms down. Some may see clear or nearly clear skin during these periods. Psoriasis can also flare unpredictably. […] Treating psoriasis can keep it under control, helping you avoid serious flares and preventing the psoriasis from becoming more severe. […] At times, treatment can lead to clear skin and no psoriasis symptoms. The medical term for this is remission. A remission can last for months or years; however, most last from 1 to 12 months. […] Psoriasis is notoriously unpredictable, so its impossible to know who will have a remission and how long it will last. […] Even when psoriasis clears, its likely to return. When it does, treatment can help control it so that your psoriasis doesnt worsen.
  • #2 Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms: What to Look For
    https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-signs-symptoms
    Any infection, including colds and flus, might trigger a psoriasis flare-up. Strep throat can trigger guttate psoriasis, especially in children. […] If you have psoriasis, you have extra reason to protect your skin. Any bruise, scrape, bite, rash, or sunburn can trigger a flare-up by causing skin inflammation. […] Emotional stress can make autoimmune disorders like psoriasis worse. […] Drinking, especially heavy drinking, may trigger or worsen symptoms and interfere with treatments. […] Using tobacco or being around secondhand smoke raises your risk of getting psoriasis and makes psoriasis symptoms worse. […] The most common signs of psoriasis are patches of scaly, itchy skin that can crack and bleed. The patches can look pink, red, brown, purple, or gray, depending on your skin tone. Some less common forms of psoriasis have different symptoms, such as small red dots or smooth red patches. Psoriasis is sometimes mixed up with other skin disorders, such as eczema, but your doctor should be able to tell the differences.
  • #2 Psoriasis – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psoriasis
    Psoriasis is a long-lasting, noncontagious autoimmune disease characterized by patches of abnormal skin. These areas are red, pink, or purple, dry, itchy, and scaly. Psoriasis varies in severity from small localized patches to complete body coverage. Injury to the skin can trigger psoriatic skin changes at that spot, which is known as the Koebner phenomenon. […] The five main types of psoriasis are plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic. Plaque psoriasis, also known as psoriasis vulgaris, makes up about 90% of cases. It typically presents as red patches with white scales on top. Areas of the body most commonly affected are the back of the forearms, shins, navel area, and scalp. Guttate psoriasis has drop-shaped lesions. Pustular psoriasis presents as small, noninfectious, pus-filled blisters. Inverse psoriasis forms red patches in skin folds. Erythrodermic psoriasis occurs when the rash becomes very widespread and can develop from any of the other types. Fingernails and toenails are affected in most people with psoriasis at some point in time. This may include pits in the nails or changes in nail color.
  • #2 What Is Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis?
    https://www.cimzia.com/plaque-psoriasis/what-is-pso
    In fact, up to 30% of people with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis. […] Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause painful inflammation in the joints, fingers, and toes. Symptoms of joint pain and swelling, along with psoriasis and nail changes, may indicate psoriatic arthritis. […] Over 90% of people with psoriasis view their condition as problematic in their daily life. […] Up to 30% of people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis. […] Nearly 90% of people with psoriasis feel helpless and embarrassed, with impact to their overall emotional well-being, according to a survey by the National Psoriasis Foundation.
  • #2 Patient education: Psoriasis (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/psoriasis-beyond-the-basics
    Psoriasis is usually a lifelong condition and is not currently curable, although the severity of the disease can improve or worsen over time and can be controlled with treatment. […] In people with certain forms of the disease, itching or pain and stiffness is severe and disabling. Some people with visible psoriasis lesions have feelings of embarrassment about their appearance. Stress, anxiety, loneliness, and low self-esteem can occur as a result. […] People with psoriasis have higher rates of depression compared with those without the condition.