Psoriasis is a long-term immune condition. Treatment helps slow skin growth and clear scale.
- Nature
- Chronic
- Pattern
- Flares and remission
- Options
- Topical to biologic
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition with no known cure. It flares for a few weeks or months, then goes into remission for a period.
See a doctor if you think you have psoriasis. It is linked with arthritis, eye conditions, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular and autoimmune disease.
Causes and risk
The cause of the immune malfunction behind psoriasis is often unclear. Some people are genetically predisposed, and environmental triggers can set it off:
- Strep throat or skin infections
- Dry environments
- Skin injuries, including sunburn
- Stress
- Smoking and alcohol
- Pregnancy
- Some medications
A family history of psoriasis raises the risk, but anyone can develop it.
Treatment options
- Topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors treat mild to moderate psoriasis.
- Narrowband UVB phototherapy is used for more severe cases.
- Immunosuppressive medications and biologic drugs are reserved for the most severe cases.
Begin with
a conversation.
Book appointmentPsoriasis frequently asked questions
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an immune-related condition that makes skin cells build up faster than usual, causing red, thickened, scaly plaques. It most often affects the knees, elbows and scalp, but can appear anywhere on the body.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Psoriasis is not an infection and cannot be passed from person to person.
What triggers psoriasis flare-ups?
Triggers include strep throat and skin infections, skin injuries such as sunburn, stress, smoking, alcohol, dry environments and some medications.
How is psoriasis treated?
Mild to moderate psoriasis is usually treated with topical medications such as corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors. More severe psoriasis may be treated with narrowband UVB phototherapy, immunosuppressive medications or biologic drugs.
Can psoriasis affect more than the skin?
Yes. Psoriasis is associated with other conditions, including psoriatic arthritis, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, so it is worth having it assessed by a doctor.