Understanding Psoriasis: Causes, Types, and Treatments

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a persistent skin disorder characterized by red, flaky patches covered with silvery scales. It commonly affects the scalp, elbows, and knees but can also involve nails, chest, and legs. Although it’s not contagious, psoriasis is hereditary, with no known prevention method. It impacts over 130 million globally, including about 7.5 million Americans, affecting men and women equally. Caucasians are more frequently diagnosed. The condition begins beneath the skin and may be linked to other health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis, especially psoriatic arthritis, which affects around 15% of sufferers. While curable, various treatments can alleviate symptoms.

Types of psoriasis vary based on their appearance, affected areas, and severity. The main forms include:

Plaque Psoriasis: The most prevalent type, presenting as red patches with silvery scales on skin, mouth, or genitals. It may cause discomfort or pain.

Inverse or Flexural Psoriasis: Occurs in skin folds such as groin, armpits, or behind knees. It tends to look smooth and shiny.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis: The rarest but most severe form, covering the body with inflamed, peeling redness, accompanied by itching and pain.

Pustular Psoriasis: Characterized by white pustules on red skin, affecting hands, feet, or larger areas. Symptoms include fever, chills, and muscle weakness.

Guttate Psoriasis: Usually triggered by infections, presenting as small dot-like spots on the skin, affecting adults and children.

Nail Psoriasis: Not a separate type but affects nails, causing discoloration, pitting, and loosening, potentially leading to nail loss.