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Introduction

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory, and immune-mediated disease that affects the skin and joints. It is characterized by red, scaly, and often itchy patches on the skin, which can appear anywhere on the body. Psoriasis affects approximately 2-3% of the population worldwide, and its prevalence varies depending on geographic location, age, and gender (Menter et al., 2020).

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Etiology and Pathophysiology

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain genetic variations, such as mutations in the CARD14 gene, have been identified as risk factors for psoriasis (Tsoi et al., 2017). Environmental triggers, such as infections, stress, and medications, can also exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

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The pathophysiology of psoriasis involves an abnormal immune response, in which T-cells are activated and produce cytokines that promote inflammation and the proliferation of skin cells. This results in the formation of plaques on the skin, which are characterized by an increased number of epidermal cells and blood vessels (Lowes et al., 2014).

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Clinical Features

Psoriasis can present in several clinical forms, including plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis.

 

 The most common form of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, which presents as well-defined, red, scaly plaques on the skin. The plaques are typically covered by silvery-white scales and can be itchy or painful (Menter et al., 2020).

Lowes, M. A., Suárez-Fariñas, M., & Krueger, J. G. (2014). Immunology of psoriasis. Annual review of immunology, 32, 227-255.

Menter, A., Strober, B. E., Kaplan, D. H., Kivelevitch, D., Prater, E. F., Stoff, B., ... & Siegel, M. (2020). Joint AAD-NPF guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with biologics. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 82(4), 1170-1212.

Tsoi, L. C., Stuart, P. E., Tian, C., Gudjonsson, J. E., Das, S., Zawistowski, M., ... & Duffin, K. C. (2017). Large scale meta-analysis characterizes genetic architecture for common psoriasis associated variants. Nature communications, 8(1), 1-12.

Psoriasis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment. March 16, 2022. Source -https://affderm.com/psoriasis-symptoms-causes-treatment/

 

 

 

 

 

Diagnosis and Management:

The diagnosis of psoriasis is primarily clinical, based on the appearance of the skin lesions and the patient's medical history. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. There is currently no cure for psoriasis, but several treatment options are available to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients. These include topical therapies, phototherapy, systemic medications, and biologic agents (Menter et al., 2020).

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Conclusion

Psoriasis is a common and chronic skin condition that can have a significant impact on the physical and emotional well-being of patients. Although the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, recent research has shed light on the genetic and immunologic factors involved in the pathophysiology of the disease. Advances in treatment options have also improved the management of psoriasis, allowing patients to better control their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

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Reference

• Lowes, M. A., Suárez-Fariñas, M., & Krueger, J. G. (2014). Immunology of psoriasis. Annual review of immunology, 32, 227-255.

• Menter, A., Strober, B. E., Kaplan, D. H., Kivelevitch, D., Prater, E. F., Stoff, B., ... & Siegel, M. (2020). Joint AAD-NPF guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with biologics. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 82(4), 1170-1212.

• Tsoi, L. C., Stuart, P. E., Tian, C., Gudjonsson, J. E., Das, S., Zawistowski, M., ... & Duffin, K. C. (2017). Large scale meta-analysis characterizes genetic architecture for common psoriasis associated variants. Nature communications, 8(1), 1-12.

• Psoriasis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment. March 16, 2022. Source -https://affderm.com/psoriasis-symptoms-causes-treatment/

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