Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Methods of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic disease affecting the immune system that causes skin cells to renew faster than normal. This rapid cell buildup leads to scaling, redness, itching, and thick plaque formation on the skin. It can affect people of all ages but usually begins between the ages of 15 and 35.

What Are the Causes of Psoriasis?

Although the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, it is believed that genetic and environmental factors play a role together. The interaction of these factors disrupts the balance of the immune system, creating the basis for the disease to develop.

1. Genetic Predisposition

Individuals with a family history of psoriasis have a higher risk. The disease can have a hereditary tendency. This genetic transmission is especially more evident in first-degree relatives.

2. Immune System Disorders

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This causes rapid multiplication of skin cells.

3. Triggering Factors

• Infections (especially throat infections)
• Stress and anxiety
• Skin traumas (cuts, sunburn, etc.)
• Certain medications (lithium, beta blockers, etc.)
• Excessive alcohol and cigarette consumption

What Are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis can present with different symptoms in each person. The most common symptoms are:

• Red, raised, and scaly plaques on the skin
• Itching, burning, or pain sensation
• Nail deformities, pitting, or thickening
• Joint pain (in cases of psoriatic arthritis)
• Dry, cracked, and sometimes bleeding skin

Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a multifaceted condition that can appear with different clinical presentations. Therefore, correctly identifying the type of the disease is very important for the treatment process.

1. Plaque-Type Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)

It is the most common type. Red lesions covered with silver-colored scales appear on the skin.

2. Guttate Psoriasis

It is usually seen in children and young people. It appears as small, drop-shaped spots.

3. Inverse Psoriasis

It appears in body folds (armpits, groin, etc.). It presents as shiny and red lesions.

4. Pustular Psoriasis

It is a rare and severe type characterized by the formation of white pus-filled blisters on the skin.

5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis

It is characterized by widespread redness and peeling covering a large part of the skin surface. It requires urgent medical attention.

How is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made through a dermatological examination. In suspicious cases, a skin biopsy can provide a definitive diagnosis. Sometimes, blood tests or imaging methods may be used to support the diagnosis. Early diagnosis is extremely important to slow the progression of the disease and to establish a more effective treatment process.

Treatment Methods for Psoriasis

Sedef hastalığı tamamen ortadan kaldırılamaz, ancak belirtileri kontrol altına alınabilir. Tedavi planı, hastalığın şiddetine ve yaygınlığına göre belirlenir.Tedavinin amacı, hastanın yaşam kalitesini artırmak ve alevlenmeleri mümkün olduğunca azaltmaktır.

1. Topikal (Cilt Üzerine Uygulanan) Tedaviler

• Corticosteroid creams
• Vitamin D analogs
• Coal tar-containing products

2. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

Controlled light therapies using UVB or PUVA rays slow down skin cell production.

3. Systemic Treatments (Oral or Injectable)

• Methotrexate
• Cyclosporine
• Biologic agents (adalimumab, etanercept, ustekinumab, etc.)

Natural and Supportive Methods

Alternative approaches such as nutrition regulation, stress management, and natural oils can also be applied as supportive methods. Omega-3 supplements and gluten-free diets may yield positive results in some patients. However, it should be noted that these methods do not replace medical treatment; they are complementary.

Is Psoriasis Contagious?

No, psoriasis is definitely not contagious. It does not spread through contact, shared items, or airborne transmission. This allows patients to live comfortably in social settings and eliminates unnecessary worries.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you have persistent rashes, itching, burning sensations, or lesions on your skin that do not improve with home treatments, it is strongly recommended to consult a dermatologist. Early intervention positively affects the course of the disease and reduces the risk of complications.