Psoriasis Reference Guide

Online Psoriasis Reference Guide

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that typically presents itself in symptoms of inflamed, red, and raised areas of the skin that often result in silvery scales. There are actually five types of Psoriasis, each with its own unique symptoms.

Plaque Psoriasis is the most common type of Psoriasis, with more than 80% of those with Psoriasis suffering from this form. This form of Psoriases is the type that presents itself in symptoms of inflamed, red, and raised areas of the skin that often result in silvery scales. The most frequent breakouts occur on elbows, knees, lower back and scalp. However, symptoms may occur anywhere on the body.

Anyone, male or female, can suffer from a form of Psoriasis. In fact, more than 4.5 million people have been diagnosed with Psoriasis in the United States alone with 150,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Researchers now believe that there may be an ethnic link to Psoriasis, as it is most common in Caucasians throughout the US and Northern Europe. In addition, genetics may also play a role because research has shown that one-third of those diagnosed with Psoriasis have at least one close relative with the condition.

Symptoms and signs of the condition usually appear when the patient is between the ages of 15 and 35, but it is possible to develop Psoriasis at any age, including infancy.