Our life definitely consists of paradoxes: the older, more common, and familiar the thing is, the less scientific knowledge we have about it. For example, psoriasis is one of the oldest skin conditions, described by people around 35 AD or even earlier.
At the same time, till now we are not sure about what causes the disease. Of course, scientists make suggestions; furthermore, everyone believes they will turn out to be right and true, but these days they are only theories, requiring further studying and proofs.
Statistics tells us that one third of all psoriasis cases runs in families; therefore, the main cause of the condition is believed to be genetic predisposition. Researchers confirm that they have identified genes, which determine how a persons immune system acts. They affect its work causing imbalances and malfunctioning. The diseases triggered by the change in the immune system activity are called autoimmune. Here belong such widespread disorders as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes type 1. Psoriasis is also said to be autoimmune in origin.
Fortunately, the active mechanism of psoriasis development is quite clear to us. The bodys immune system constantly produces special white blood cells called T cells. Their task is to protect the organism against viruses and bacteria.
In the case of psoriasis a number of these cells significantly increases, causing other immune responses. The latter lead to the accelerated turnover of skin cells. It means that the new skin cells mature too fast (within a week instead of a month), while older cells do not manage to completely shed from the skin surface. As the result they all become piled, forming several layers, which can be raised, inflamed, and itching. These formations are called patches or plaques.
On the other hand, many people with a family history of psoriasis never experience a disease. At the same time, those, who seem to be completely out of risk, may acquire the condition. This leads to the suggestions that some other factors may have influence on the development of the illness. Therefore, it is reasonable to talk about psoriasis as a multifactor disorder.
Scientists confirm that such environmental irritants and life conditions as stress, skin injuries, certain infections (for example, guttate psoriasis is triggered by streptococcal infection), some medications (anti-malarial drugs, beta-blockers, steroids, etc.), and exposure to harsh weather conditions may provoke the development of psoriasis.
Such skin diseases as psoriasis may seem simple to those, who know nothing about them. In fact, their nature is very complex. Their impact on the sufferers is physically and emotionally challenging and even devastating. Sometimes people with psoriasis are under constant stress and anxiety, being embarrassed and ashamed of their condition. This simple disease, especially its severe cases, can significantly affect a persons quality of life.
National Psoriasis Foundation even shows statistical data informing that 26% of people living with moderate to severe psoriasis have been forced to change or discontinue their normal daily activities. Consequently, the least what we can do for the psoriasis sufferers is to support them psychologically, showing our understanding and benevolence.
Ivanna
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