Plaque Psoriasis (PsO)

Psoriasis is a lifelong skin condition which has a significant impact on patients’ physical, emotional and psychosocial wellbeing.1,2  

Plaque psoriasis accounts for 80–90% of cases.2 

It presents as red patches (lesions) on the skin that are covered with silvery scales, and may vary in shape and size. They can be itchy and sometimes split and bleed.3  

Patients may also develop nail abnormalities and stiff, painful joints (usually affects joints at the ends of fingers and toes).3 

Patients may go into remission but then experience exacerbations caused by various trigger factors.1 

Image of person showing plaque psoriasis on forearms

Approximately 2% of people worldwide have psoriasis, one third of whom have a moderate to severe form. Age at onset is usually 16–22 years (‘early’) or 57–60 years (‘late’). Males and females are affected in equal numbers and it is twice as likely in smokers.1,2  

The cause of psoriasis is unknown but it is believed to be a complex autoimmune inflammatory disease with a genetic basis.1 

Treatment is lifelong, based on controlling  symptoms and aimed at remission.1 It is often ‘stepwise’, starting with topical agents which are then followed by other treatment and systemic agents.1,2 

References

  1. Engler D, Chezuba HP, Masuku P. Psoriasis. South African Pharmaceutical Journal. 2017;84(5):38-42 
  2. Raboobee N, Aboobaker J, Jordaan HF, et al. Guidelines on the Management of Psoriasis in South Africa. South African Medical Journal. 2010;100(4):255-286. doi:10.7196/SAMJ.4015 
  3. Psoriasis: What Is It? BMJ Best Practice Patient Leaflet. 6 Aug 2021