Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that is not contagious.

What happens in psoriasis?

In people with psoriasis, inflammation leads to plaques on the skin.

What causes psoriasis?

• The cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to develop in people who have an inherited tendency for the immune system in their skin to react abnormally to certain environmental conditions.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol intake can make it worse.

What are the symptoms?

Psoriasis is characterised by the development of red scaly areas of skin. It may occur any area of the skin but is most common on the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp. It can be painful and itchy and has a tendency to crack and bleed. Psoriasis can have have periods when it flares up.

Please contact your doctor if your symptoms change.

How is it diagnosed?

• A dermatologist will diagnose and treat psoriasis.
• Diagnosis is usually from taking a history from the patient and examining the skin, but a biopsy may be required.

How is it treated?

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are a variety of medicines available to help with the symptoms. Your dermatologist will advise you on the treatments that are best for you.

If you have psoriasis you are advised also to:

• apply moisturiser to all of the skin every day.
• improve lifestyle: stop smoking, avoid excessive alcohol intake and excess weight gain.
• eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Please contact your doctor for further information about your condition and treatment.