Psoriasis
Psoriasis
A social, cosmetic and a dermatological problem which causes extreme social discomfort, depression and loss of self esteem.
Effect on the quality of life
Psoriasis has been shown to affect health-related quality of life to an extent similar to the effects of other chronic diseases such as depression, myocardial infarction, hypertension, congestive heart failure or type 2 diabetes. Depending on the severity and location of outbreaks, individuals may experience significant physical discomfort and some disability. Itching and pain can interfere with basic functions, such as self-care, walking, and sleep. Plaques on hands and feet can prevent individuals from working at certain occupations, playing some sports, and caring for family members or a home. The frequency of medical care is costly and can interfere with an employment or school schedule.
Individuals with psoriasis may also feel self-conscious about their appearance and have a poor self-image that stems from fear of public rejection and psychosexual concerns. Psychological distress can lead to significant depression and social isolation.
Causes: idiopathic, believed to be
- Auto immunity
- Genetic component : A child with one affected parent has a 15% chance of developing the disease and this rises to 50% if both the parents are affected
Aggravating factors:
- Stress
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Deprivation of sunlight
Symptomatology:
- Itching & dryness of the skin.
- Severity & spread of Plaques with silvery scales.
- Degree of redness (from pale pink to fire engine to purplish red)
- Pustular
- Prevalence 2 -3%.
- Either sex.
- 15-20 yrs of age.
- 35% have moderate to severe lesions.
- 1/3 of the people have family history.
- Common sites elbows , knees , scalp & genitals.
- Psoriatic nail dystrophy.
- Psoriatic arthritis.
- Severity based on
- Surface area affected.
- Disease activity.
- Response to previous therapy.
- Impact on person.
Types of Psoriasis
- Plaque
- Pustular
- Guttate and
- Flexural psoriasis
- Inverse psoriasis
- Erythrodermic psoriasis
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is mostly based on Clinical, Histopathological