The specialist explains how early diagnosis and adequate control help patients live injury-free and with a better quality of life.
Discover the signs, causes and treatment of the chronic skin disease that affects approximately 5 million Brazilians
Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious inflammatory disease that affects the skin. According to data from the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD), it is estimated that 3% of the world’s population suffers from this pathology, of which over 5 million people in Brazil alone.
Reddish scaly plaques characterize the disease and appear most frequently on the elbows, knees, trunk and lower back. When these inflamed lesions affect folded areas, such as the armpits, groin and under the breasts, doctors call this form inverted psoriasis.
Dermatologist Lara Fileti Arruda Holzchuh, of the São Francisco de Mogi Guaçu Hospital, explains that psoriasis occurs due to an exaggerated response of the immune system, which accelerates the natural renewal process of skin cells.
Why psoriasis happens
“While skin renewal normally lasts about a month, in people with psoriasis this cycle is reduced to 3-7 days. This causes the accumulation of cells on the surface of the skin, resulting in thick, reddish and scaly plaques,” explains the doctor.
Although the exact cause is not yet fully understood, it is known that genetic factors combined with environmental and behavioral factors, such as infections, stress, use of certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and climate changes, can trigger or worsen lesions. The disease can occur at any stage of life, but is most common between the ages of 20 and 40.
“The emotional aspect plays an important role, as stress, anxiety and depression can promote the appearance of lesions and even worsen existing conditions. Therefore, it is very important to also take care of your mental health during treatment,” warns Lara.
The importance of medical monitoring
Although there is no definitive cure, psoriasis has effective treatment and control.
“Today it is possible for the patient to be completely free of lesions, provided he follows the treatment correctly. Mild cases tend to respond well to creams and ointments with corticosteroids or immunomodulators. More extensive forms, or those affecting areas of the scalp or genitals, require systemic treatment with specific drugs, such as immunobiologicals, which are expensive but available free of charge at the SUS,” advises Dr. Lara.
Regular follow-up with a dermatologist is essential, as psoriasis requires continuous treatment throughout your life. In addition to skin manifestations, the disease can affect joints (causing psoriatic arthritis) and is associated with metabolic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and increased cardiovascular risk.
“Psoriasis not only inflames the skin, but the entire body. With proper treatment, the patient can live without lesions and with a much better quality of life,” concludes the doctor.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
