Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic, genetic, non-contagious
skin disorder that appears in many different forms
and can affect any part of the body, including the
nails and scalp.
Although
the actual causes of psoriasis are debatable,
genetic predisposition along with environmental
triggers are generally considered to be the main
reasons for the occurrence of the disease.
Psoriasis most frequently affects the skin of the
elbows, knees, back, buttocks and scalp.
Normally
the cells of the outer layer of the skin are
constantly shed and replaced by new cells, which
are produced by the basal layers.
In
psoriasis patients there is acceleration of the
production of new skin cells.
These
cells accumulate, manifesting as thick, lumpy, and
reddish flaky patches on the surface of the skin.
Psoriasis treatments include:
·
Topical - Mild to moderate psoriasis
·
Phototherapy (usually ultraviolet) - Moderate to
severe psoriasis
·
Systemic (taken orally or by injection or
infusion) - Moderate, severe or disabling
psoriasis
Overproduction of a cellular messenger called TNF
(tumor necrosis factor) is believed to play a role
in psoriasis. New systemic treatments can
neutralize the excess TNF in the body to improve
psoriasis symptoms.
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