What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease that causes a rapid build-up of skin cells. This rapid buildup of skin cells results in often painful, itchy plaques of scaly skin commonly seen over the extensor surfaces of elbows and knees. Nails and scalp may also be affected. As a systemic disease, psoriasis is associated with several other health problems including cardiovascular disease, malignancy, and joint disease. The diagnosis of psoriasis is primarily clinical; however, a skin biopsy is sometimes needed as other skin conditions can mimic psoriasis.
