It is a common, chronic skin condition in which both genetic and environmental influences play a role. It presents as red patches over the body which generates scales when scratched.  It is present particularly over extensor surfaces and scalp. The disease is enormously variable in duration, periodicity of  flares

and extent.

 

Different Varieties of psoriasis exist:

 

• Chronic plaque psoriasis present over the body

• Guttate psoriasis mostly seen in children or following acute infection

• Palmo plantar psoriasis localized to palms and soles

• Scalp Psoriasis

• Flexural Psoriasis

• Pustular psoriasis

• Joint pains due to psoriasis

 

Environmental Risk factors include

 

• Trauma is well known to incite psoriasis at the site

• Throat infection can precipitate the guttate psoriasis

• Many drugs have been reported to be responsible for the onset or exacerbation of psoriasis. Chief among them are antimalarials, beta-adrenergic blocking agents, non-steroidal antI - Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and the withdrawal of corticosteroids

• Psoriasis may be provocked  by strong sunlight

• Hormones

• Stress exacerbates psoriasis

• Cigarettes and  alcohol have a detrimental effect on psoriasis.