Psoriasis is a chronic, multisystem inflammatory disorder, characterized by uncontrolled, excessive proliferation of the keratinocytes in the epidermal layer of the skin. It commonly affects the skin of the elbows; knees; scalp; Lower back; In between the buttocks; And glans penis. In about 30% of patients, the joints are also affected. This condition is specifically referred to as psoriatic arthritis. The exact cause of psoriasis is not known. However, it is thought to be due a combination of environmental, genetic, and immunologic factors.
There are several different types of psoriasis, according to their morphologic features. Psoriasis vulgaris is the most common type. Involves the scalp, extensor surfaces, genital region, and umbilical area. Guttate psoriasis is seen predominantly on the trunk. And it is sudden in onset, typically appears 2 to 3 weeks after an upper respiratory tract infection. In addition, the affected area will be itchy. Inverse psoriasis occurs in flexural surfaces like armpit & groin; under the breast; And in the skin folds. This type of psoriasis is often misdiagnosed as a fungal infection.
Pustular psoriasis is characterized by the presence of pustular lesions typically on the palms & soles. Erythrodermic psoriasis involves nearly the entire body surface area with red skin, and peeling off. Scalp psoriasis involves the scalp, and the area back of the ears. And it accounts for about 50% of the cases of psoriasis. And finally, nail psoriasis occurs in the tips of the fingernails.
Some other symptoms associated with psoriasis include pain, especially in erythrodermic psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis; Pruritis, in guttate psoriasis; Fever, in pustular & erythrodermic psoriasis; Joint pain without any visible skin findings, in psoriatic arthritis; And conjunctivitis.
The treatment of psoriasis depends on the type, severity, and response to the drugs in different individuals. Some of the commonly used drugs include topical corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone and betamethasone; Ophthalmic corticosteroids such as prednisolone acetate; Intra muscular corticosteroids such as triamcinolone; Coal tar; Keratolytic agents such as Anthralin; Vitamin D analogues; Antimetabolites, such as methotrexate; Immunomodulators, such as tacrolimus; Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, such as Infliximab; And interleukin inhibitors.
Sometimes for the treatment, non drug therapy is also indicated. These include, light therapy, with solar, or ultra violet radiation; stress reduction; Climatotherapy; And adjuncts, like sunshine, sea bathing, moisturizers, and oatmeal bath.

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