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DermatologicalICD-10: L40Affects about 7.5 million adults in the US; 2–3% of the global population

Psoriasis

Also known as: Plaque Psoriasis, Psoriatic Disease

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. This results in thick, silvery scales and dry, red, itchy patches that can be painful. Psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disease associated with increased risks of psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, depression, and metabolic syndrome.

Symptoms

Red, raised patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales (plaques)
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Itching, burning, or soreness
Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails
Stiff, swollen joints (psoriatic arthritis in about 30%)
Scalp scaling resembling severe dandruff
Small scaling spots (guttate psoriasis, often in children)

Causes

  • Overactive immune system with T-cell and cytokine dysregulation
  • Genetic predisposition (HLA-Cw6 and other susceptibility genes)
  • Environmental triggers activating the immune response
  • Accelerated keratinocyte proliferation (skin cells replace every 3–4 days instead of 28–30)

Risk Factors

  • Family history of psoriasis (one-third have an affected first-degree relative)
  • Stress (can trigger flares)
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Certain infections (streptococcal throat infection can trigger guttate psoriasis)
  • Certain medications (lithium, beta-blockers, antimalarials)

Diagnosis

  • Clinical examination of skin lesions by a dermatologist
  • Skin biopsy (rarely needed, but confirms diagnosis if uncertain)
  • Assessment of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score
  • Screening for psoriatic arthritis (CASPAR criteria)

Treatment

  • Topical treatments: corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs (calcipotriene), retinoids
  • Phototherapy (UVB narrowband therapy)
  • Systemic medications: methotrexate, cyclosporine, apremilast
  • Biologic therapies: TNF inhibitors (adalimumab), IL-17 inhibitors (secukinumab, ixekizumab), IL-23 inhibitors (guselkumab, risankizumab)
  • Emollients and moisturizers to reduce scaling and dryness

Prevention

  • Psoriasis cannot be prevented, but flares can be minimized by:
  • Managing stress through mindfulness or therapy
  • Avoiding known triggers (certain medications, skin injuries, infections)
  • Keeping skin well-moisturized
  • Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol

When to See a Doctor

  • Skin patches that are widespread, painful, or affecting quality of life
  • Joint pain or swelling suggesting psoriatic arthritis
  • Psoriasis not responding to over-the-counter treatments
  • Signs of infection in psoriatic lesions (increased redness, warmth, pus)

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Eczema

Dermatological

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Autoimmune

Rosacea

Dermatological

Related from the Supplement Library

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

Vitamin D

Strong

Vitamin · Bone health and calcium absorption

Turmeric

Strong

Herb · Reduces systemic inflammation (NF-κB pathway)

Probiotics (Lactobacillus)

Strong

Probiotic · Gut microbiome balance and diversity

These supplements have been studied in relation to Psoriasis. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.