What is psoriasis?
It is a chronic skin disease represented by red, dry, thickened (in relief), inflamed skin areas covered by silver scales, easily removable, all of which are accompanied by pruritus (itching) to varying degrees.
Why does psoriasis occur?
Studies to date have not identified an exact cause of psoriasis, but it is certain that it develops as a result of the interaction between the IMMUNE SYSTEM, GENETIC FACTORS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS. Sometimes people have blood relatives already diagnosed with psoriasis.
Is psoriasis contagious?
Not. Psoriasis is NOT contagious and has no infectious cause! The disease reflects the individual’s susceptibility to the disease, through certain genes or defects in their own immune system, combined with environmental factors.
Can psoriasis be prevented?
Not. Because of the mechanisms behind the disease (genes, fine tuning of the immune system at the molecular level), there are no methods of preventing the disease, but there are environmental factors known to cause or exacerbate an episode of the disease: smoking, stress, respiratory infections , certain medicines (eg beta-blockers), etc.
Can psoriasis be cured?
It is a CHRONIC disease, which means that it is NOT cured, but has periods of disappearance and relapse, which vary from person to person and even in the same person. Current treatments make the rash go away and keep the disease under control. The dermatologist is the one who establishes the diagnosis and the most suitable therapy option for the patient, taking into account his medical history and the form of the disease.
Why should a person with this type of condition go to the doctor?
is one of the diseases that most impacts the quality of life of the person suffering from this condition, as it affects their self-esteem, as well as social interactions
there is a wide range of skin conditions that can resemble psoriasis and because psoriasis can also have various forms of presentation, it is best to see a dermatologist in order to establish the correct diagnosis and an appropriate therapeutic approach
psoriasis can also affect other parts of the body, such as the nails, or it can even go deeper into the body (eg joints)