Journal of Dermatitis

Overview of Psoriasis and their Causes and Treatment

Zheng Shi^* Department of Dermatology, University of Harbin Technology, Harbin, China
^*Correspondence: Zheng Shi, Department of Dermatology, University of Harbin Technology, Harbin, China, Email:

Received: 02-Jan-2023, Manuscript No. JOD-23-20639; Editor assigned: 04-Jan-2023, Pre QC No. JOD-23-20639 (PQ); Reviewed: 18-Jan-2023, QC No. JOD-23-20639; Revised: 25-Jan-2023, Manuscript No. JOD-23-20639 (R); Published: 01-Feb-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2684-1436.23.08.178

Description

Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune condition that affects the skin and results in red, scaly patches. It is a common skin condition, affecting approximately 2%-3% of the global population. While psoriasis is not contagious, it can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, leading to discomfort, self-consciousness, and social isolation. In this article, we will explore the causes and treatments available for psoriasis.

Causes of psoriasis

Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system that leads to the rapid growth of skin cells. In a healthy immune system, skin cells grow and shed in a cycle that takes about a month. However, in people with psoriasis, this cycle is accelerated, with skin cells growing and shedding in a matter of days. This leads to a buildup of skin cells on the surface of the skin, forming the characteristic scales and plaques associated with psoriasis.

While the exact cause of psoriasis is not yet known, researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role. Family history is a significant risk factor for psoriasis, with around one-third of people with the condition having a close relative who also has it. Certain triggers, such as stress, infection, injury, and medication, can also trigger psoriasis symptoms.

Types of psoriasis

There are several types of psoriasis, each with its unique symptoms and characteristics. These include:

Plaque psoriasis: This is the most common type of psoriasis, affecting around 80%-90% of people with the condition. It causes raised, red patches with silver-white scales to form on the skin, often appearing on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

Guttate psoriasis: This type of psoriasis is more common in children and young adults and often occurs after a streptococcal throat infection. It causes small, drop-shaped lesions to appear on the skin, often on the trunk, arms, and legs.

Inverse psoriasis: This type of psoriasis affects the folds of the skin, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. It causes smooth, red patches to appear, which may be aggravated by sweating or friction.

Pustular psoriasis: This type of psoriasis causes blisters filled with pus to appear on the skin, often on the hands and feet.

Erythrodermic psoriasis: This is a rare and severe form of psoriasis that can affect the entire body. It causes widespread redness, itching, and peeling of the skin and can be lifethreatening in severe cases.

Treatment of psoriasis

While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, several treatments can helps to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the type of psoriasis.

Topical treatments: These are creams, ointments, and lotions that are applied directly to the skin. They may contain corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, or other medications to reduce inflammation and slow down skin cell growth.

Phototherapy: This treatment involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of light, such as Ultraviolet (UV) light. It can be done in a doctor's office or at home using a special light box.

Systemic medications: These are medications that are taken orally or injected and work throughout the body to reduce inflammation and slow down skin cell growth. They may be used for severe or widespread psoriasis that does not respond to other treatments.

Biologic medications: These are a type of systemic medication that targets specific molecules in the immune system that contribute to psoriasis