What is psoriasis?
 
Psoriasis is a chronic skin problem that affects almost 1 to 3% of the general population worldwide.  
 
It affects men and women of all ages. 
  
Is it contagious?
 
Psoriasis is not contagious and physical contact with people who suffer from psoriasis should not be avoided.
 
What are the causes of psoriasis?
 
Psoriasis is a multifactorial disease that may be caused by:
• Genetic factors
• Immunological factors
• Environmental factors
• Stress
• Medicine (cortisone, b - blockers, lithium, etc)
• Infections
• Trauma
• Climatic changes (upsurge during winter and remission during summer)
 
What is the pathogenesis of psoriasis?
 
Psoriatic plaques are the result of the abnormal and faster rebirth of the epidermis cells.  While this procedure normally lasts 28 days in patients with psoriasis it lasts a week.
 
What are the signs of psoriasis?
 
The first signs are usually erythematous plaques covered with silvery scales which detach from the skin. 
 
Which areas does psoriasis affect?
 
Psoriasis plaques usually affect the elbows, the knees and the scalp. However they can occasionally affect other body parts such as the core, the gluts, the shanks, the genitals, the face and in some cases they cover large skin areas.
 
Does psoriasis cause itching?
 
Itching is mentioned as a side effect by 60% of the psoriasis patients. 
 
For how long does it last?
 
The duration of psoriasis varies. 
 
In most cases the disease has upsurges and remissions for many years or even throughout the patient’s whole life.  
 
What are the treatments for psoriasis?
 
Psoriasis treatments are:
 • Local
• Systematic
• Combination of the above