What is psoriasis and how does it manifest itself?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease, which is caused by erroneous signals from the immune system that accelerates the life cycle of skin cells, leading to the accumulation of dead cells on the surface of the skin.
Psoriasis can occur at any age, being more frequent in the 50-69 age group. The aetiology of psoriasis is still unknown. There is evidence of genetic predisposition and although no antigen responsible has been defined, there is a possibility that it is an autoimmune disease.
Psoriasis can also be caused by external and internal triggers such as mild trauma, sunburn, infection, drugs or stress.
Skin cells are normally replaced every 3 to 4 weeks, but in psoriasis this process only takes 3 to 7 days, resulting in lesions that manifest themselves on the patient's skin.
Psoriasis is manifested by skin lesions that cause itching, stinging and pain. They may be localised or widespread, in the form of red papules and plaques usually covered with white or silvery scales. These lesions are mostly symmetrical and well demarcated. This disease causes a great physical, emotional and social burden.
How is psoriasis treated?
The treatment of psoriasis is still based on symptom control, through topical and systemic therapies, as well as phototherapy. In addition, the care of patients with psoriasis requires not only treating skin lesions and joint involvement, but it is also very important to identify and manage common comorbidities that already exist or may develop such as cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, as well as psychological conditions.
