Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disease that affects 1 in 40 people. How do you get this disease and are you contagious?

Psoriasis is caused by a dysregulation of the immune system. The epidermis divides far too quickly, causing the skin to flake off like skin scales, leaving large red spots. Normally the skin renews itself every month, while in someone with psoriasis this happens every other week.

Psoriasis is not contagious and it cannot be cured. Once you have psoriasis, you will always suffer from it. There may be long periods during which no attacks occur. Attacks can be triggered by fatigue and stress.

Psoriasis often occurs on the elbows and knees, but it can also occur on the trunk and limbs. The nails can also be affected. In some people even the joints are affected. The treatment mainly consists of etching creams with cortisone, tar or salicylic acid and UVA or laser irradiation.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024