Psoriasis

• Types of Psoriasis
• Drugs and Treatments of Psoriasis

Definition

Psoriasis is a medical term which is coined from a Greek word psōra which means “itch”. Psoriasis is a non-contagious skin disease distinguished by itchy reddish inflamed lesions and white or gray scales due to flaking of dead skin.

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system of the body increases its activity as well as the the speed of the skin’s regeneration. Normally, skin regeneration happens every three or four weeks. However, because the speed is increased, this creates an imbalance between the development of new skin cells and the shedding of the old ones. The old dried skin cells, having not yet been removed are accumulated at the surface of the skin resulting to what looks like scales and flakes. Most of the time, the reddish inflamed lesions are due to papules and pus which develop under the dry flaked skin.

Psoriasis usually builds up on the elbows, knees, arms, back, chest, legs, nails and scalp.

Degree or severity of psoriasis:

Mild – less than 5% of the body surface is affected

Moderate – 5-30% of the body surface is affected

Severe – more than 30% of the body surface is affected