Psoriasis

About

Psoriasis affects people of all ages, but usually first appears in early adulthood. Symptoms can:

• Vary from mild (affecting small areas of skin) to severe (covering the entire surface of the skin)
• Cause extensive physical and social discomfort and affect a person's quality of life

Causes

Psoriasis is often genetic, meaning you inherit it. If you have genes that put you at risk for psoriasis, symptoms can be triggered by things like:

• Infection
• Stress
• Certain drugs
• Alcohol
• Sun exposure

Treatment

The good news is that most cases of psoriasis can be managed by topical treatment with vitamin D, corticosteroids or combination products. There is now a wide variety of formulations available, from creams and ointments to gels, to meet a person's needs.

If symptoms are severe or cover a lot of the body, phototherapy with ultraviolet radiation or systemic therapy (tablets, injections, infusions) may be considered. Talk to your doctor to learn more about treatment options.

To learn more about psoriasis, visit:

Canadian Skin Patient Alliance
Canadian Association of Psoriasis Patients
Canadian Dermatology Association