Psoriasis

Medical terms

Psoriasis

Common terms

Psoriasis

Overview

Psoriasis is a common condition affecting approximately 1% of the population.  Psoriasis can be distressing especially when it covers a large area of the body. Psoriasis is not a contagious disease.

The cause of psoriasis is not yet known.

Symptoms and signs

Psoriasis causes red, scaly plaques to appear on the skin. Plaques can take on a silvery-white appearance or be more red. It frequently occurs on the elbows and knees but can affect any area including the scalp and genitals, fingernails and toenails. It is rare on the face.

Treatment

Whilst there is currently no cure for psoriasis, there are many treatments which can control the condition and vastly improve quality of life.  Often a combination of topical treatments is required but when psoriasis is extensive systemic treatment (tablets) may be necessary. Simple measures such as an appropriate skin care regime can improve psoriasis or augment the effect of prescription creams.

Biologics is the name given to a new generation of treatments reserved for very severe psoriasis and involves injections often administered at home by the patient. These treatments are currently new and expensive but results are promising.