No-one quite knows exactly what causes psoriasis, although genetics are believed to be a factor. The general consensus is that the immune system also plays a huge part, with the immune system somehow triggered to produce more skin cells than is normal.

People who don't suffer with psoriasis will produce mature skin that sheds itself within 28-30 days, psoriasis sufferers however will produce mature skin within 3-4 days. Unlike normal skin cell production though which falls off, psoriasis cells pile up, forming lesions on the surface (see diagram above, to the right).

Psoriasis can also be triggered by a number of other factors such as: -

The weather - Cold, dry weather can flare up psoriasis while warm damp or sunny temperatures can make symptoms better.

Stress - Stress or emotional distress can trigger psoriasis flare ups.

Skin infection - Skin infections caused by viruses or bacteria can trigger psoriasis and cause flare up.

Skin injury/damage - Damage or injury to the skin, like grazes or cuts can cause psoriasis to break out.

Drugs - Certain drugs can flare up or make worse psoriasis, such as: -

Chloroquine
ACE inhibitors(monopril/captopril)
Beta blockers (lopressor/atenolol)
Progesterone
Lithium
Indocin

Types Of Psoriasis

There are 5 types of psoriasis with different symptoms and levels of severity, such as:-

1) Plaque Psoriasis

This is the most common form of psoriasis and is usually found on the knees, lower back and elbows. 80% of psoriasis cases suffer with this form. Tell-tale signs are red lesions with silvery white scales, affecting large skin areas.

2) Guttate Psoriasis

This form of psoriasis can develop quite quickly and often out of the blue, usually in children and teens. The tell-tale signs are small red independent spots appearing on the trunk or limbs. These legions aren't as thick as or as widespread over skin distances as plaque psoriasis for example.

3) Inverse Psoriasis

This form of psoriasis develops on the groin, armpits, underneath the breasts, buttocks and around the genitalia as well as other skin folds. Appearance is of a flat, red, shiny scaleless nature and a lot smoother than other forms. This is more common in overweight people and is one of the most irritating forms of psoriasis. Sweat and clothing abrasion can inflame inverse psoriasis.

4) Pustular Psoriasis

This type of psoriasis usually develops on the hands and feet, although it can spread to other areas and resembles white blisters over red inflammation. The blisters are filled with pus and this is quite a painful form. When the pus seeps or hardens, the psoriasis gathers a scale like appearance. More common in adults.

5) Erythrodermic Psoriasis

This is the most severe form of psoriasis and can cover most parts of the body at any one time. The appearance is of a fiery red coloration with inflammation and is very itchy, and very painful. If you suffer with this form of psoriasis you should consult with your doctor or physician immediately. Erythrodermic psoriasis causes fluid and protein loss which can lead to serious illness.

Psoriasis Cure

There is no known cure for psoriasis but given the number of people affected by it, research is plentiful and ongoing and there is hope of one day finding an effective solution. However there are a number of treatment options open to those who suffer with psoriasis (see below).

Psoriasis Treatment

There are various forms of treatment and options open to psoriasis sufferers to combat and help ease the condition. More on Psoriasis Treatment...