Psoriasis Awareness Month

Psoriasis, an autoimmune condition, can have widespread systemic effects. Psoriasis is characterized by itchy plaques, scaly rashes, and red/dry patches of skin. The condition has been linked to genetics, immunity, and environmental triggers. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation:

• Psoriasis afflicts more than 8 million Americans.

• 125 million people worldwide have psoriasis, according to the World Psoriasis Day Consortium.

• Studies show that between 10 and 30 percent of people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis.

• Psoriatic arthritis usually develops between the ages of 30 and 50 but can develop at any age.

• About one-third of people with psoriasis have a relative with the disease.

• The condition affects both men and women at the same rate.

Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be passed through skin-to-skin contact. If your patient presents with the following symptoms, they might have psoriasis:

• Patches of raised red skin

• Thick, white or silvery scales on the skin

• Inflammation

• Itchy, flaking or burning skin

• Dry, cracked skin that bleeds

• Swollen and stiff joints

Psoriasis can develop anywhere on the body, but commonly affect the elbows, knees, belly button, buttocks, and scalp. Importantly, an outbreak can last for weeks or months, and it is a condition that can clear up and then reappear.