Understanding Psoriasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Psoriasis is a persistent autoimmune skin condition characterized by abnormal immune responses that accelerate skin cell production. Normally, skin cells mature and shed over approximately a month. However, in individuals with psoriasis, this process speeds up dramatically, occurring within just a few days. As a result, dead skin cells accumulate, forming thick, silvery scales known as plaques, which are most commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Importantly, psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person.

The development of psoriasis involves an overly active immune system, but the exact mechanisms remain not fully understood. It is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. Having a family history increases the risk, as does the autoimmune nature of the disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. Factors that can trigger or worsen psoriasis include stress, infections such as strep throat, skin injuries like cuts or burns, certain medications, cold or dry weather, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption.

There are multiple forms of psoriasis, with plaque psoriasis being the most prevalent. Other types include guttate psoriasis, often triggered by infections and appearing as drop-shaped spots; inverse psoriasis affecting skin folds such as armpits and groin; pustular psoriasis, characterized by white pus-filled bumps; and erythrodermic psoriasis, a severe and widespread redness of the skin requiring urgent medical attention.

Symptoms can vary but typically include red, inflamed patches covered with silvery-white scales, dry and cracked skin that may bleed, itching, burning sensations, thickened or pitted nails, and joint pain associated with psoriatic arthritis. Flare-ups can come and go, and many individuals experience periods of improvement.

While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, several treatment strategies aim to control symptoms and improve quality of life. Topical treatments such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, coal tar, and salicylic acid are often first-line options. Phototherapy utilizes ultraviolet light to slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation under medical supervision. For moderate to severe cases, systemic treatments—including oral or injectable medications like methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin, or biologic drugs such as adalimumab, etanercept, and secukinumab—are prescribed. Biologics target specific parts of the immune system and are particularly effective when other treatments fail.

Lifestyle adjustments play a vital role in managing psoriasis. Regular moisturizing prevents dryness, managing stress reduces flare-ups, avoiding skin injuries minimizes new patches (known as the Koebner phenomenon), quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, and using gentle bathing routines can all contribute to healthier skin.

It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if you observe persistent, worsening patches of skin, rapid spread of symptoms, or joint pain. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose psoriasis and help develop a personalized treatment plan. Although a lifelong condition, proper management enables most individuals to lead comfortable and fulfilling lives.

<source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-psoriasis-symptoms-treatments-dermatologist.html>