Psoriasis

Overview

Mayo Clinic is recognized internationally for its treatment of psoriasis, a common skin condition characterized by a rapid buildup of rough, dry, dead skin cells that form thick scales. Each year specialists at Mayo Clinic treat hundreds of psoriasis patients, children and adults. Mayo has special expertise in treating people with severe cases with a time-tested tar therapy developed by a Mayo Clinic physician.

Diagnosis is usually made by a visual inspection, although sometimes a skin biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Each form of psoriasis has unique characteristics and their effects on patients range from mild to almost totally disabling. Determining the correct diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

The primary goal for treatment is to suppress the growth of skin cells. Treatment approaches include creams and ointments, oral medications, phototherapy and immune-modulating drugs. Read more about psoriasis treatment.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota
• Treatment of Children & Adolescents

About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common skin condition characterized by unsightly patches of skin, discomfort and sometimes pain. Psoriasis can occur at any age, but the onset is usually gradual and its diagnosis is commonly made between the ages of 15 and 35. It tends to flare periodically and may go into remission, but usually remains active for years. Arthritis accompanies psoriasis in about 1 in 10 people.

Normally, it takes about a month for new skin cells to move from the lowest layer of the skin, where they first form, to the outermost layer, where they die and scale off in flakes. In psoriasis, the life cycle of skin cells speeds up, resulting in a multitude of dead cells on the skin's outer layer. The skin disease is not contagious. Doctors believe psoriasis to be an inherited disease, influenced by many factors. But researchers have not been able to identify the gene or genes responsible for psoriasis.

Factors that may trigger psoriasis include:

• A systemic infection such as strep throat
• An immune system response to disease
• An injury to the skin
• A reaction to a medication or vaccine
• Stress
• Environmental factors, such as sunburn or chemical burn

Read more about psoriasis at MayoClinic.com.