Psoriasis Overview: An Insight

You've likely seen advertisements showcasing psoriasis treatments, often depicting the red, patchy skin associated with the condition. If it's hard to watch, imagine living with it every day.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning it interferes with the immune system's ability to function properly and to identify and destroy harmful pathogens. Normally, our bodies shed 40,000 skin cells per minute. However, in people with psoriasis, the immune system sends incorrect signals, causing the skin to produce too many cells. These cells don't fall off as they should but instead accumulate, forming red, scaly patches [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

The exact cause of psoriasis remains unknown. However, certain individuals may be genetically predisposed to developing the condition. When this genetic tendency is triggered by factors like stress or medication, psoriasis can emerge. You might go from being perfectly healthy one day to experiencing a psoriasis flare-up the next. It's estimated that 10 percent of the population carries a genetic risk for the disease, but only 2 to 3 percent will actually develop it [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

While the exact details about psoriasis are still not fully understood, many people live with the condition daily. Fortunately, effective treatments are available. Keep reading to discover more about psoriasis and its symptoms.

Psoriasis Symptoms and Types

There are five distinct types of psoriasis, each presenting with unique symptoms. The most common type is plaque psoriasis, which appears as red patches covered in silvery or white scales. These patches form from skin cells that the body usually sheds. People with plaque psoriasis typically develop these patches on their elbows and knees, although they can appear anywhere on the body [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

Guttate psoriasis, the second most common type, often begins in childhood. It develops rapidly as small red bumps and tends to cover the body from the neck downward. Various factors, including respiratory infections, strep throat, tonsillitis, and stress, can trigger an outbreak of guttate psoriasis [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

Pustular psoriasis exists in three forms: von Zumbusch, palmoplantar pustulosis, and acropustulosis. Von Zumbusch psoriasis begins with painful, red skin, followed by pustules within hours. These pustules dry and peel over the next two days, giving the skin a shiny, glazed appearance. Certain medications or pregnancy can trigger this form, which may also cause fever, anemia, and dehydration [source: National Psoriasis Foundation]. If you experience symptoms of von Zumbusch psoriasis, seek medical attention immediately, as untreated cases can lead to heart or lung failure [source: eMedicineHealth]. Palmoplantar pustulosis creates pustules on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet that turn brown and peel. This condition is mostly seen in current and former smokers, and it may not resolve even if smoking is discontinued [source: American Osteopathic College of Dermatology]. Acropustulosis is an extremely rare form of pustular psoriasis causing painful lesions on the fingers and toes, which can lead to nail deformities and changes in bone structure [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

Inverse psoriasis, the fourth type of psoriasis, affects areas with skin folds, such as the armpits and genitals. Red plaques form in these folds, leading to irritated and tender skin [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

Erythrodermic psoriasis is the fifth and rarest form of the disease. It causes significant loss of protein and fluids, leading to potential complications like infection, pneumonia, and congestive heart failure. Symptoms include intense redness, excessive skin shedding, itching, rapid heart rate, and fluctuating body temperature. If you notice these symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical help immediately [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

Continue reading to learn more about psoriasis treatments.

Psoriasis Treatment

There are three primary treatment approaches for psoriasis, depending on the condition's severity. Topical treatments are applied directly to affected areas; phototherapy, which uses ultraviolet light, helps manage the disorder; and oral medications, which address the disease from within. In severe cases, a combination of therapies may be needed, and treatments are alternated to prevent the immune system from becoming resistant to one particular medication [source: American Osteopathic College of Dermatology].

Topical treatments, which include steroids or vitamin D3, aim to slow the overproduction of skin cells. These treatments may cause side effects like dry, itchy skin and can stain clothing, towels, or other materials that come into contact with the affected skin [source: National Psoriasis Foundation]. Doctors typically recommend trying a topical treatment before moving on to phototherapy or oral medications.

While frequent exposure to ultraviolet light can be harmful, phototherapy can be a useful treatment for psoriasis when done in moderation. Ultraviolet light slows the rapid production of skin cells by penetrating the skin. There are two types of phototherapy: one uses ultraviolet light B (UVB), and the other uses ultraviolet light A (UVA). UVB can be effective on its own, but UVA needs to be combined with a light-sensitizing medication [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

Oral medications are typically prescribed for more severe cases of psoriasis when other treatments have not been successful. These medications usually work by suppressing the immune system, which can make the body more vulnerable to infections and other diseases [source: National Psoriasis Foundation].

Is there a psoriasis cure? Keep reading to find out more.

Is There a Psoriasis Cure?

Although there is currently no cure for psoriasis and the exact cause of the disease remains unknown, researchers and doctors are actively working toward a solution. A recent study by the University of Bonn in Germany discovered that metalloproteinase inhibitors, a class of enzyme inhibitors, could help normalize the overactive skin cells in psoriasis patients, allowing them to maintain healthy cell division. However, further testing is required before this treatment can be approved for clinical use [source: Science Daily].

Numerous organizations are also dedicated to finding a cure for psoriasis. Psoriasis Cure Now, a non-profit advocacy group, leads the charge. The organization raises funds for psoriasis research, educates lawmakers on the disease, and organizes awareness and fundraising events, such as psoriasis walks. [source: Psoriasis Cure Now].

Continue reading to discover how individuals with psoriasis manage their condition on a daily basis.

Living with Psoriasis

Even though there is no cure for psoriasis, millions of people deal with it every day. Those with mild forms can live fairly normal lives, but more severe cases can be extremely debilitating and even life-threatening. Psoriasis goes beyond just skin damage—many patients also experience low self-esteem due to the visibility of their condition, which can be hard to cover. Others struggle with depression and feelings of alienation, as many people misunderstand psoriasis and wrongly assume it's contagious. Thankfully, there are plenty of support groups that assist people in managing their condition and in raising awareness about psoriasis [source: Griffin].

In the end, managing psoriasis effectively requires an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. To find out more about psoriasis, explore the links on the next page.