|
Join our Email List ! |
|
|
 |
|
Big Apple Dermatology
36-A East 36th Street
Suite 202, (between Park & Madison Ave)
New york, New York 10016
|
|
Directions >>>
|
|
|
|
For appointments call: 212 683-6073
|
|
|
Psoriasis |
|
|
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder, which typically consists of red
plaques covered by silvery-white scales. These red scaly plaques are usually found
on the elbows, knees, lower back,scalp. It does not cause scarring. When psoriasis
involves the underarms, genital area and beneath the breasts it tends to be less
scaly and have a glazed appearance. Psoriasis infrequently affects the face and
it can involve the nails & bones. Approximately 2% of adults have psoriasis.
Its exact cause is unknown but the
result is skin, which grows about seven times
more quickly and thickly than usual. It is thought to be due, at least in part,
to an abnormal immune reaction against some component of the skin. Genetic factors
play a part; only some families develop the condition, and about half those affected
know of someone else in the family with it. The rash often seems to start after
some sort of trigger factor. This may be emotional stress, skin injury (cuts and
scratches for example), a streptococcal sore throat, hormones (it often first occurs at puberty), or rarely, certain medications. These factors should be avoided whenever
possible by people with psoriasis. Psoriasis is not an allergy, nor is it infectious
to others.
|
|
|
 |
