Psoriasis: Uncovering the Root Causes Beyond the Skin

Do you also think you are a victim of elevated, red, scaly lesions on the skin commonly known as skin rash?

Then there are Psoriasis's symptoms, a long-term skin disease. When the immune system is hyperactive, it speeds up the growth of skin cells, which causes fast accumulation and inflammation referred to as plaques. Various body surfaces such as the scalp, elbows, and knees are influenced by Psoriasis. It can also cause psoriatic arthritis. Some individuals confuse these symptoms with Eczema but you should know that Psoriasis and Eczema share a lot of similarities. Therefore, individuals tend to confuse them. Rashes of Eczema tend to target skin folds and are itchier.

Global Impact of Psoriasis

Approximately 2-3% of the population of the world appears to be in the grip of Psoriasis, i.e., about 125 million individuals across the globe. In 2019, reports stated that there were 40.8 million cases worldwide. There has been a 20% drop since 1990. It was discovered that the age-standardized incidence rate per 100,000 people varied significantly by region.2 The highest rate of the age-standardized incidence rate of psoriasis was found in high-income countries and territories and vice versa was found in low SDI countries as they reported the lowest rate. Psoriasis is most prevalent among individuals between 60 to 69 years, and it is nearly equally prevalent among both men and women.

What's the Difference Between Eczema and Psoriasis?

If you experience a dry, itchy rash, then you may find it quite simple to be confused between the two.

Eczema and Psoriasis cause rashes that come and go, and these are referred to as flare-ups. At times it may take months or even years for these flare-ups to subside. These two look quite similar. But do you know the difference between these two and how deep is Psoriasis skin deep? If not, then let's see it step by step.

What are the Types of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune disease that speeds up skin cell growth, which makes the surface of the skin quickly develop skin cells. It may be brought about by the combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental exposures. There are various forms of Psoriasis including

1. Plaque psoriasis

The most prevalent psoriasis is Plaque, present in 80-90% of those afflicted with Psoriasis. It is seen as red patches, elevated with silver-white scales. The scalp, trunk, and limbs—elbows and knees specifically—are where these plaques normally develop on the body symmetrically.

2. Guttate psoriasis

If you have red, drop-shaped spots with tiny bumps on top that appear on the torso or limbs. It's common in children and young adults and it may be triggered by a strep throat infection.

3. Inverse psoriasis

These occur under the breast or in the armpits of the groin, with the appearance of being smooth, red patches in skin folds. It is caused by and made worse by rubbing and sweating.

4. Pustular psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis presents with pus-filled bumps known as pustules on red skin. It tends to affect feet and hands but there is a variant that affects the body as a whole. It can be triggered by infection, stress, drugs or some chemicals.

5. Erythrodermic psoriasis

This is a rare form of psoriasis characterized by red, scaly skin all over the body. It can be caused by a bad sunburn or by certain medication. It is most commonly found in individuals who have difficulty coping with other forms of psoriasis that are not controlled. Psoriasis erythrodermic can prove to be very dangerous.

6. Scalp Psoriasis

It is a contagious-free skin condition that is chronic. It grows thick and scaly spots on the scalp and occasionally the nearby regions.

What are Psoriasis Risk Factors?

The cause of psoriasis is unknown but it is brought about by environmental influences and it can also be brought about by hereditary factors. Below are the psoriasis risk factors that can aid those who are at risk to easily manage the condition-

1. Genetic factors

Having a family history of psoriasis can increase your chances of developing it.

The lifetime risk of psoriasis can be 14-28% if one parent has it. If both of the parents have it, then the risk increases up to 40-65%. If your sibling has it then it elevates it further. Psoriasis has been identified to be caused by gene mutations, including those within the CARD14 gene, although not every individual with these mutations develops the condition.

2. Medications

It is known that some medicines may cause or exacerbate psoriasis disease symptoms. These include:

• Beta-blockers

• Lithium

• Antimalaria medications

• Indomethacin

3. Lifestyle factors

Small lifestyle adjustments can even cause psoriasis-like-

• Smoking

• Obesity

• Alcohol Drinking

• Changes in Hormones

4. Environmental triggers

Psoriasis can be caused because of environmental stimuli in susceptible individuals like

• Weather Conditions

• Injury to the skin

• Stress

5. Infection

Psoriasis can be induced due to diverse infections like streptococcal pharyngitis. Infections such as HIV can also enhance the severity or vulnerability of the condition.

6. Immune system dysfunction

Psoriasis is mostly an immune-mediated disorder where normal skin cells are erroneously targeted by the immune system, leading to a rapid cell turnover of skin. Environmental factors and genetic factors both contribute to this dysfunction.

Psoriasis and Skin Color

Psoriasis differs from skin to skin, it appears differently on various skins.

On darker skin tones, Psoriasis can appear dark brown, purple, violet, or salmon with grayish scales. It appears red with silver scales over lighter-colored skin. Also, when having a flare of psoriasis, dark-skinned individuals may experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a skin discoloration that will take months to resolve. Those of color with psoriasis may have more extensive cases that can cover their entire bodies.

To Know More: