Psoriasis: latest advances in understanding and novel therapeutic approaches

Psoriasis is a chronic disabling skin disorder which is the end result of a pathological process involving genetic and environmental elements. Both a T-cell origin and a primary defect in keratinocytes have been considered as the starting point. Recently, transgenic animal models and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) grafting have been developed. Research into the basic biology and immunology of psoriasis is generating a wide range of new treatments, including differentiating agents and immunomodulatory drugs. Flaws in conducting clinical trials of psoriasis have been repeatedly described, and methodological improvements are required.