Psoriasis – National Library of Medicine – PubMed Health

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes skin redness and irritation. Most people with psoriasis have thick, red skin with flaky, silver-white patches called scales.A.D.A.M.

Psoriasis is very common. Anyone can get it, but it most commonly begins between ages 15 and 35.

You cannot catch psoriasis or spread it to others.

Psoriasis seems to be passed down through families. Doctors think it may be an autoimmune condition. This occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy body tissue.

Usually, skin cells grow deep in the skin and rise to the surface about once a month. When you have psoriasis, this process takes place is too fast. Dead skin cells build up on the skin's surface.

The following may trigger an attack of psoriasis or make the condition harder to treat:

Bacteria or viral infections, including strep throat and upper respiratory infections

Dry air or dry skin Injury to the skin, including cuts, burns, and insect bites

Stress

Too little sunlight

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Psoriasis - National Library of Medicine - PubMed Health