Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 696.1      ICD10: L40.8      ICD11: EA90

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes raised, red, scaly patches to appear on the skin.
It's not contagious, and it affects millions of people worldwide.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects of psoriasis:

Key Characteristics:

Skin Patches: The most common symptom is thick, red patches of skin with silvery scales. These patches are often itchy, painful, and can crack and bleed.
Location: Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body, but it's most commonly found on the:
Elbows
Knees
Scalp
Lower back
Fingernails and toenails
Autoimmune: Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to grow too quickly.
Rapid Skin Cell Production: Normal skin cells turn over (shed and are replaced) in about a month. In psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days, leading to the buildup of cells on the skin's surface, creating the characteristic plaques.
Chronic Condition: Psoriasis is a long-term condition. People with psoriasis may experience periods of flare-ups (when symptoms are worse) and remissions (when symptoms are mild or disappear).
Not Contagious: You cannot catch psoriasis from someone who has it. It's not an infection.

Types of Psoriasis:

There are several types of psoriasis, including:

Plaque Psoriasis: The most common type, characterized by raised, red patches covered with silvery scales.
Guttate Psoriasis: Often appears as small, drop-like lesions on the skin. It's often triggered by a streptococcal infection (strep throat).
Inverse Psoriasis: Occurs in skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. It appears as smooth, red, inflamed patches.
Pustular Psoriasis: Characterized by pus-filled blisters (pustules) surrounded by red skin.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A rare and severe form that affects most of the body surface. It causes widespread redness, scaling, and pain.
Nail Psoriasis: Affects the fingernails and toenails, causing pitting, thickening, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed.
Psoriatic Arthritis: A form of arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis. It causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Causes and Triggers:

While the exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, it's believed to be a combination of:

Genetics: Psoriasis tends to run in families.
Immune System: An overactive immune system is the primary driver.
Triggers: Certain factors can trigger psoriasis flare-ups, including:
Stress
Infections (especially strep throat)
Skin injuries (cuts, burns, bug bites)
Certain medications
Cold weather
Smoking
Alcohol

Diagnosis:

Psoriasis is usually diagnosed by a dermatologist (a skin specialist) based on a physical exam and medical history. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:

There's no cure for psoriasis, but there are many treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of psoriasis and may include:

Topical Treatments: Creams, lotions, and ointments applied directly to the skin. These may contain corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, retinoids, or other medications.
Phototherapy (Light Therapy): Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, either from natural sunlight or artificial light sources.
Systemic Medications: Oral or injectable medications that affect the entire body. These are usually used for more severe cases of psoriasis. Examples include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics.
Biologic Medications: A type of systemic medication that targets specific parts of the immune system. These are often very effective but can have potential side effects.
Lifestyle Changes:
Moisturizing regularly
Avoiding triggers
Managing stress
Eating a healthy diet
Getting regular exercise

Important Considerations:

See a Doctor: If you think you have psoriasis, it's essential to see a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Individualized Treatment: Treatment for psoriasis is highly individualized. What works for one person may not work for another.
Adherence to Treatment: It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and to be consistent with your treatment plan.
Support: Living with psoriasis can be challenging. Support groups and online resources can provide valuable information and emotional support.

This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.