Types of Psoriasis and Their Effects on the Immune System

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease which is identified by the appearance of erythematous that is clearly demarcated, scaly plaques. It is a skin disease seen regularly around the elbow, scalp, trunk, and also on the knees. Psoriasis is a commonly occurring chronic disease with no cure. In psoriasis, which is thought to be an immune system-related problem, the cells of the skin grow quicker than normal cells. The rapid turnover of cells is responsible for the dry scaly patches seen clinically, also called plaque type of psoriasis. The etiopathogenesis of psoriasis is not yet fully understood. It is considered an outcome of some alteration of the cells in the immune system, which fights infections, but here, it attacks healthy cells, which is the problem. Researchers believe both environmental and genetic factors play a role. It is commonly known that psoriasis is not contagious as it does not spread by air or water. There is a chance of increasing the risk of acquiring psoriasis, also worsening the disease severity by smoking and tobacco consumption. Anyone irrespective of age or gender can develop psoriasis. Psoriasis is divided into various kinds: plaque, nail type, guttate, or inverse, also pustular. The most commonly occurring type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, seen with itchy, dry, scales covering patches of skin that are raised.