Doctors at the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology report millions of Americans suffer with the chronic skin disorder psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic condition caused by a defective immune system that affects skin cell development. Some people experience psoriasis outbreaks in response to various triggers.
Features
Psoriasis is not contagious. It can occur on any part of the body in the form of patchy red scales and lesions.
Types
There are various types of psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is found in nearly 80 percent of psoriasis patients. Other types include guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis.
Prevention/Solution
Those who have psoriasis should learn to avoid their specific triggers that could include stress, excessive alcohol consumption, drug reactions and dry skin.
Warning
Psoriasis symptoms are worsened by scratching, injuries to the skin and infections. People with immune deficiencies such as AIDS tend to suffer from more severe outbreaks.
Complications
Psoriasis can spread into the joints and cause psoriatic arthritis. Untreated, the condition can cause swelling and pain in the joints. Researchers at the National Psoriasis Foundation report nearly 30 percent of psoriasis patients develop psoriatic arthritis.
Treatment
Various forms of treatment are available for the conditions that range from over-the-counter creams to prescription medications.
