Psoriasis – Detailed Notes
Definition
Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory skin disorder.
It is characterized by rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to thick, red, scaly patches
(plaques).
Non-contagious, often relapsing and remitting.
May affect skin, nails, and joints.
Classification
1. Plaque Psoriasis: Most common type. Raised red plaques with silvery scales.
2. Guttate Psoriasis: Small drop-shaped lesions, often after a streptococcal infection.
3. Inverse Psoriasis: Smooth, red patches in skin folds.
4. Pustular Psoriasis: White pustules on red skin, localized or generalized.
5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Severe, widespread redness and scaling.
6. Nail Psoriasis: Pitting, thickening, onycholysis.
7. Psoriatic Arthritis: Joint inflammation in psoriasis patients.
Etiology and Causes
Autoimmune disorder with overactive T-cells causing inflammation.
Genetic predisposition is a major factor.
Triggers include infections, stress, injury, and certain medications.
Risk Factors
Family history of psoriasis.
Smoking and alcohol use.
Obesity, chronic stress.
Infections and certain drugs (lithium, beta-blockers, antimalarials).
Symptoms
Red patches of skin with silvery scales.
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed.
Itching, burning or soreness.
Thickened, pitted nails.
Joint pain and swelling in psoriatic arthritis.
Flares and remissions.
Definition
Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory skin disorder.
It is characterized by rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to thick, red, scaly patches
(plaques).
Non-contagious, often relapsing and remitting.
May affect skin, nails, and joints.
Classification
1. Plaque Psoriasis: Most common type. Raised red plaques with silvery scales.
2. Guttate Psoriasis: Small drop-shaped lesions, often after a streptococcal infection.
3. Inverse Psoriasis: Smooth, red patches in skin folds.
4. Pustular Psoriasis: White pustules on red skin, localized or generalized.
5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Severe, widespread redness and scaling.
6. Nail Psoriasis: Pitting, thickening, onycholysis.
7. Psoriatic Arthritis: Joint inflammation in psoriasis patients.
Etiology and Causes
Autoimmune disorder with overactive T-cells causing inflammation.
Genetic predisposition is a major factor.
Triggers include infections, stress, injury, and certain medications.
Risk Factors
Family history of psoriasis.
Smoking and alcohol use.
Obesity, chronic stress.
Infections and certain drugs (lithium, beta-blockers, antimalarials).
Symptoms
Red patches of skin with silvery scales.
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed.
Itching, burning or soreness.
Thickened, pitted nails.
Joint pain and swelling in psoriatic arthritis.
Flares and remissions.
