What Psoriasis is – more common than you think!

Is your skin itchy, dry, and has scaly patches in some areas? These patches can be anywhere on the body but mostly manifest in elbows, scalp, and your knees. What we’re describing right now is a skin disorder called ‘Psoriasis.’ In lieu of Psoriasis Awareness Month, in this blog, we will explain what psoriasis is.

Often developing in people of ages 15 to 35, this disease can still develop at any age. The disease is a chronic condition that affects the surface of the skin.

Did you know? 10-15% of people develop Psoriasis before age 10.

Rest assured, the disease isn’t contagious and doesn’t spread through touch.

What do we know about Psoriasis?

Although it is a common condition, it is still an under-researched topic. One of the hypotheses conclude our immune system unnecessarily accelerating the growth of healthy cells, making it inflamed.

There are about 25 variants of Psoriasis, each a bit different than the other, but the condition remains the same – itchy, dry and scaly skin.

TypeAffected AreaDescription
1. Plaque PsoriasisEntire bodyCaused by a buildup of skin cells, known as ‘plaques.’
2. Scalp PsoriasisScalpCauses flaky dandruff-like skin, and in extreme cases, thinning of hair.
3. Guttate PsoriasisTorso and back limbsAlso known as ‘tear-drop’ psoriasis because of the shape of the spots in bright pink or red color.
4. Pustular PsoriasisEntire bodyCauses small white or yellow blisters over darkened, or red skin. These are often filled with ‘pus’ giving them a yellow tint.
5. Sensitive-area PsoriasisFace, genital folds, armpitsCauses skin to become more sensitive in specific areas, especially around clothing and skin folds.
Nail PsoriasisNailsCan be painful and restrict movement by affecting the nails or toenails.

Of all these types, Plaque Psoriasis is the most common one and is thought to be caused by a genetic mutation, known as CARD14.

Are there any treatments available?

Currently, there are no designated treatments available for this condition as it still remains under-researched. Scientists and doctors are still working on new treatments including therapeutic antibodies or monoclonal antibodies such as Secukinumab.

Person Holding White and Gold Dropper

Interleukins 12 and 23, these proteins have suggested to play a role in the development of Psoriasis. Thus, researchers have come up with an antibody to disable these proteins.

We hope we were able to give you all the information you need about Psoriasis, and have cleared what Psoriasis is.

Visit 1ML Healthcare Services for more interesting reads.

Android App