Introduction to Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic and genetic skin disorder that occurs in up to 3% of the
population worldwide. It is not contagious. The most common form is plaque,
or patch, psoriasis. The term plaque is used to describe the raised and
red scaling patches on the skin that are a primary characteristic of this disease.
The scales within the plaques are often silver-colored and thickened and appear
most frequently on the elbows, knees, and lower back. However, all areas of the
skin are susceptible.
Psoriasis is most common in people of western European or Scandinavian descent.
It is less common in blacks or Asians and hardly ever occurs in pure Native Americans.
Psoriasis is more emotionally than physically disabling. It can erode self esteem
and cause patients to withdraw from activities in an effort to conceal the disfigurement
caused by the plaques. Ironically, patients who refrain from outdoor pastimes lose
the benefit of sunshine, one of the key treatments in keeping psoriasis under control.
Causes of psoriasis
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