About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin affecting approximately 2% of the world's population.

People with psoriasis typically have defined plaques covered by silvery white scales. These commonly appear on the elbows, knees, scalp and the trunk of the body.

Psoriasis facts:

A common and chronic skin disease.

Occurs in all age groups.

Appears equally in males & females.

Non Contagious.

Effects quality of life to an extent similar to other chronic diseases such as depression / diabetes.

If you have psoriasis, risk to your:

Sibling - 15-20%.

Identical twin - 65-70%.

Child - 25%.

Causative agents / Predisposing factors:

Family history of psoriasis (in 33% cases).

Infections.

Stress.

Changes in climate.

Excessive alcohol & smoking.

Certain medicines (lithium and beta blockers).

Body parts likely to be affected:

Can occur on skin anywhere on the body.
Most often occurs on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet.
Approximately 10%-20% of people with psoriasis experience joint inflammation that produces symptoms of arthritis (psoriatic arthritis)

The 'holy grail' cure for psoriasis still eludes modern medicine.