About Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin affecting approximately 2% of the world’s population.
People with psoriasis typically have sharply demarcated chronic erythematous plaques covered by silvery white scales. These commonly appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, umbilicus and lumbar area.
Psoriasis facts:
- A common and chronic skin disease
- Occurs in all age groups
- Appears equally in males & females.
- Non Contagious
- Effects quality of life to an extent similar to other chronic diseases such as depression / diabetes
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If you have psoriasis, risk to your:
Sibling – 15-20%
Identical twin – 65-70%
Child – 25%
Causative agents / Predisposing factors:
- Family history of psoriasis (in 33% cases)
- Infections
- Stress
- Changes in climate
- Excessive alcohol & smoking
- Certain medicines (lithium and beta blockers)
Body parts likely to be affected:
- Can occur on skin anywhere on the body
- Most often occurs on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet
- Approximately 10%-20% of people with psoriasis experience joint inflammation that produces symptoms of arthritis (psoriatic arthritis)
The most promising form of treatment currently available is a class of biologic drugs called TNF- α inhibitors. However, their use has several limitations:
- High cost of therapy
- Development of allergic reactions and injection site reactions
- Development of antibodies
- Activation of latent tuberculosis
- Risk for worsening congestive heart failure
- Parenteral (injection) route of administration only
- Headaches, nausea, dizziness and other side effects
The ‘holy grail’ cure for psoriasis still eludes modern medicine. However, there is a new safe and natural alternative.
