So What exactly is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis (pronounced sor –eye-ah-sis) is a chronic (long term) skin disease in search of a cure.

The name of the disorder originates from the Greek word “Psora” meaning “to itch” and is categorized as a non-contagious skin disease.

Unpredictable and irritating, psoriasis is one of the most baffling and persistent of skin disorders.

Most researchers agree that the immune system is somehow mistakenly triggered, and rapidly speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells to a rate nearly 10 times faster than normal. A healthy skin cell typically matures, reaching the skin’s surface, and falls from the body every 28 to 30 days. The abnormal psoriatic skin cell reaches maturity in a rapid three to four days and moves to the outer most layer of the skin (stratum corneum) in sheer volumes. This overwhelming volume of cells can not be shed fast enough and as a result causes a pile up on the skin’s surface that manifests into raised, red patches covered with white scales.

Psoriasis is an extremely common skin condition who's symptoms often go unnoticed.  Many people suffering with the condition go untreated thinking there condition is merely severe dry skin.  It isn't until this condition causes more severe reactions that many even begin to consider treatment options.  The problem is, if left untreated, psoriasis can develop into more severe conditions such as psoriatic arthritis.  So if you are wondering, what is psoriasis and do I have the symptoms, it would be worth a visit to your local dermatologist.

The Unanswered Questions about What is Psoriasis 

Psoriasis is a common skin condition in which scaly pink patches form on the arms, knees, back, genital region and scalp. Psoriasis is a chronic (long-lasting) skin disease characterized by scaling and inflammation. Scaling occurs when cells in the outer layer of skin reproduce faster than normal and pile up on the skin's surface. Possibly a disorder of the immune system.

In some cases Psoriasis occurs as a skin disease in which red flaky lesions occur and may cause nail abnormalities. Nail changes are common and include pitting and a yellowish discoloration that resembles a fungal infection. Psoriasis may also cause hair loss. There are several variations of psoriasis but the most common type is known as the Chronic Plaque Psoriasis. About 3 in 100 people are said to suffer from Psoriasis. There are about 100 - 150 million people who suffer from Psoriasis.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition. There are five types, each with unique signs and symptoms. Between 10% and 30% of people who develop psoriasis get a related form of arthritis called “psoriatic arthritis,” which causes inflammation of the joints.