Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition. It is not contagious. Symptoms include red scaly patches on skin, itchiness and flaking of the skin. Psoriasis can also affect the nails and may cause arthritis (psoriatic arthritis). About 10 per cent of affected people have all three. <\/p>\n
There is no cure for psoriasis, but it can be well controlled with treatment. <\/p>\n
Around 30 per cent of people affected by psoriasis will be able to identify relatives who have or have had psoriasis. A number of genes with psoriasis susceptibility have been identified recently. <\/p>\n
Environmental events can trigger episodes of psoriasis in people with an inherited susceptibility to the condition. These may include: <\/p>\n
The areas that are most commonly affected are the scalp, elbows and knees, but skin psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body. <\/p>\n
Symptoms of skin psoriasis vary from person to person. The effects may include: <\/p>\n
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by: Sinclair Dermatology <\/p>\n
Last updated: November 2014 <\/p>\n
Content on this website is provided for education and information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. Content has been prepared for Victorian residents and wider Australian audiences, and was accurate at the time of publication. Readers should note that, over time, currency and completeness of the information may change. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions. <\/p>\n
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