Psoriasis; the ProDerm UK guide to psoriasis

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that affects the skin and in about 10 to 15% of cases can also cause arthritis. Sometimes it affects the nails causing psoriatic nail disease. It is a common condition affecting men and women equally and about 2% of the population are affected in the United Kingdom. 

The cause is not well understood but it is thought that genetic factors play a role and often something will trigger the immune system causing the condition to appear e.g. a streptococcal sore throat infection. Once present, the condition will persist long-term but can fluctuate and sometimes disappear completely.

There are different types of psoriasis but it generally causes thick red, flaky and scaly plaques occurring on the elbows knees back and scalp, although it can affect almost any part of the body.

Different types of psoriasis include:

Chronic plaque psoriasis, the commonest form giving rise to red scaly plaques on the body and legs.

Guttate psoriasis, multiple small plaques usually erupting following an infection e.g. sore throat

Psoriasis affecting the hands and feet - palmoplantar psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis -an aggressive red eruption on the body and limbs with small pustules

Flexural psoriasis - when the condition occurs in flexural areas such as the armpits and groin

Is there a cure for psoriasis?

No it cannot be cured but will sometimes spontaneously disappear completely and doctors are not certain why this happens. Modern treatments are very good at clearing the skin completely however.

If psoriasis is troubling you then get in touch with our team and we can discuss the treatment option