What is Psoriasis? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Methods

Psoriasis, commonly known as psoriasis, is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease that occurs as a result of an overreaction of the immune system..

  • This disorder, which can be seen at any age, can be triggered by stress, infections, trauma or certain medications in people with a genetic predisposition.
  • Psoriasis, flare-ups and remissions (remission) progresses with periods and can continue throughout life.

The basis of the disease is that immune cells (T lymphocytes) attack skin cells, causing them to regenerate much faster than normal.This condition typically presents with lesions on the skin that appear as white-silver flakes on a thick, red base..


 

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Psoriasis can occur in different parts of the body and symptoms can vary from person to person.The most common findings are:

  • Red, raised and scaly skin plaques,
  • Itching, tenderness or burning sensation,
  • Skin cracking and sometimes bleeding,
  • Nail changes (pits, thickening, yellowing),
  • Dandruff and rash on the scalp,
  • Some patients experience joint pain and morning stiffness ( psoriatic arthritis ).

Lesions are most commonly seen in the knees, elbows, scalp, back, chest and waist area..


 

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease and is not contagious.Although the exact cause is unknown, it is known that some triggering factors are effective in the emergence and exacerbation of the disease.:

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Psychological stress and traumas
  • Infections (especially throat infections)
  • Certain medications (beta-blockers, lithium, antimalarial drugs, etc.)
  • Skin injuries or sunburn
  • Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking

These factors cause the immune system to overwork, initiating abnormal cell production in the skin..


 

Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis can present itself in several different clinical types.:

  • Plaque Type Psoriasis:It is the most common form and forms thick, raised, scaly red plaques on the skin.
  • Guttate Psoriasis:It is especially seen in children and young adults and usually occurs after infection.
  • Pustular Psoriasis:It progresses with small inflamed blisters on the skin.
  • Clear Psoriasis:It is seen as red and moist lesions in skin folds (groin, armpit, under the breast).
  • Erythrodermic Psoriasis:It is a rare and severe form that affects the whole body.

 

How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made by dermatological examination.The typical appearance of the lesions is often sufficient for diagnosis.However, in some cases, a skin biopsy may be taken for microscopic examination..


 

Psoriasis Treatment Methods

Although psoriasis is a chronic disease, symptoms can be controlled and long-term recovery can be achieved with appropriate treatment.The treatment plan is tailored to the individual based on the severity and extent of the disease..

  1. Topical (Local) Treatments In mild cases, creams, ointments and lotions applied only to the skin may be sufficient.
    • Corticosteroid creams, vitamin D analogs, tar-derived products, moisturizers and barrier repair creams are frequently used.
  2. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)UVB or PUVA phototherapy may be used in cases of moderate to severe psoriasis. This treatment, administered under the supervision of a dermatologist, reduces the overactivity of immune cells.
  3. Systemic and Biological TherapiesIn severe cases of psoriasis, systemic drugs and biological agents administered orally or by injection (anti-TNF, IL-17, IL-23 inhibitors) can be used.

 

Things to Consider in Patients with Psoriasis

  • Stress management:Stress is one of the strongest triggers of disease.
  • Balanced diet: Antioxidant-rich foods, vegetables and fruits should be preferred.
  • Smoking and alcohol should be avoided.
  • The skin should be kept moist and irritating products should be avoided.
  • Regular follow-up under dermatologist supervision is important.

Psoriasis is a disease that can last a lifetime but can be kept under control with the right treatment and regular follow-up.Today, thanks to advanced treatment options, patients' quality of life can be significantly improved..