Psoriasis is a non-contagious skin condition. It causes red, scaly patches to develop on the skin. These areas are most common on the scalp, elbows and knees, but can occur on any areas of the body. Skin affected by psoriasis grows much quicker than normal skin. There is no cure for psoriasis but it can be controlled with treatment.
A variety of physical effects
Symptoms of psoriasis vary from person to person. The effects may include:
- Red scaly patches on scalp, elbows, knees and other parts of the body
- Itchiness - however, many people do not feel itchy at all
- Shedding of scales of skin.
Types of psoriasis
- Plaque psoriasis - most common form
- Guttate psoriasis - found mostly in children
- Flexural psoriasis - affects body folds and genital area
- Erythrodermic psoriasis - severe form requiring hospitalisation
- Napkin psoriasis.
- Pustular psoriasis - a more severe form of psoriasis which can be painful.
Psoriasis can cause arthritis
For an unknown reason, psoriasis can cause a form of arthritis known as psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms include:
- Discomfort, throbbing or swelling in one or many joints
- Tenderness in any joint
- Pain caused by inflammation in the joints which stimulates nerve endings.
The joints that are most likely to be affected are:
- The last joint in the fingers or toes
- Sacrum (lower back), wrists, knees or ankles.
Causes are unknown
The cause of psoriasis is unknown; however it’s likely that a tendency to psoriasis is inherited because it seems to run in families.
Shocks and infections can trigger attacks
An accident, nervous shock, streptococcal throat or a bacterial, viral or fungal skin infection can make psoriasis appear.
Creams and medicines can relieve symptoms
Moisturising
It is very important to keep your skin moisturised as dry skin can lead to scratching. You should:
- Use a soap substitute
- Use protective gloves
- Keep fingernails and toenails short to prevent damage to the skin from scratching.
Medicines and creams
Doctors may prescribe a range of treatments including:
- Medications such as Methotrexate, Neotigason, Cyclosporin and Calcipotriol
- Ultraviolet light and PUVA Phototherapy
- Coal tar preparations, cortisone and other emollients.
Where to get help
- Your doctor
- A specialist dermatologist (your doctor can refer you)
- Psoriasis Australia Inc.
Things to remember
- Psoriasis is not contagious
- There is no known cure for psoriasis - but it can be controlled with treatment.
You might also be interested in:
Chinese herbal medicine.
Dandruff and itching scalp.
Eczema (atopic dermatitis).
Pityriasis rosea.
Skin explained.
Vulval conditions.
Want to know more?
Go to More information for support groups, related links and references.
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Psoriasis explained.
