Psoriasis is a fairly common inflammatory skin condition that affects about 1-2% of all people. Although psoriasis is a chronic condition, it can be successfully managed with the help of an experienced dermatologist.
Causes of psoriasis
Psoriasis is associated with genetics and a malfunctioning immune system. Normal, healthy skin will undergo a 3-4 week cycle of shedding and renewal. With psoriasis, however, your immune system is inappropriately activated, causing new skin cells to form within a much shorter time frame of about 4 days. Since these cells are not fully mature and ready, they pile up on your skin, forming thick, red, scaly patches.
Types of Psoriasis
The various types of psoriasis include:
- Nail psoriasis – associated with abnormal growth of toenails or fingernails
- Plaque psoriasis – most common type
- Guttate psoriasis – forms smaller lesions compared to plaque psoriasis
- Pustular psoriasis – fairly uncommon, pus-filled lesions are seen
- Inverse psoriasis – seen in skin folds such as the groin, armpits, or underneath breasts
- Erythrodermic psoriasis – uncommon, covers a very large skin area.
Treatment for psoriasis
There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for psoriasis as it varies based upon disease severity and response to treatment.
Please contact us at 818-343-0101 or visit our office located in Tarzana, CA for a proper evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.
