Psoriasis is a common inflammatory disorder of the skin . It is an immune-mediated genetically determined skin disorder which affects the skin, nails as well as joints and has various systemic associations. Psoriasis can present at any age. Psoriasis is generally classified into early-onset and late-onset. The peak age of onset in adults is in the third and fourth decade of life, with men having slightly greater chances of being affected.
How to identify psoriasis?
There are many clinical presentations of psoriasis. The most common type is the chronic plaque-type psoriasis which presents as circumscribed, well-demarcated erythematous plaques that occur on the elbows and knees, buttocks, scalp and lower back. The scales are abundant, loose, dry and silvery-white. It can manifest on hand and foot as well, it may occur in isolation or along with elsewhere on the body. Nail involvement is also common and can be the initial and the only site of involvement in some patients. Involvement of the joints can lead to significant joint damage and disability.
Causes
Psoriasis is a disease of multifactorial origin. It is an outcome of certain environmental factors acting on individuals, especially in certain people with a specific genetic predisposition. It leads to immune dysregulation and abnormal keratinization which in turn results in the appearance of cutaneous lesions. Genetic predisposition has a significant role in psoriasis.
Some of the leading factors that can aggravate psoriasis are
Treatment
Psoriasis is usually a lifelong disease with variable periods of spontaneous improvement and worsening. Based on the extent and severity, various topical and systemic agents, along with other forms of therapy help in clearing the lesions.
Counseling the patient and explaining the nature of the disease, its non-contagious nature, its chances of remitting and relapsing and factors which lead to its exacerbation is important. Support group therapy may be beneficial.
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits like exercising, yoga, relaxation, and meditation are encouraged as they help in reducing stress and help in managing the intensity of the condition. Cessation of alcohol and smoking is also advised.
Some of the tips to prevent and manage psoriasis are
Dr. Priya Vernekar | Consultant Dermatologist | Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, Whitefield
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