When people are diagnosed with psoriasis, it changes them physically because of the lesions that appear on their skin. But equally important, it can affect how they work, play games, view and interact with others.
What causes psoriasis? Psoriasis may be one of the oldest recorded diseases of the skin. It was probably first described around 35 AD. Some suggest a date even earlier. But until recently, was known little about psoriasis. Although scientists still do not know exactly what causes psoriasis, research has significantly advanced our understanding. An important breakthrough began with the discovery that patients with renal-transplant who had psoriasis experienced clearing when taking cyclosporine. Since cyclosporine is a potent immunosuppressive drug, indicating that the immune system is involved.
Can genetic cause psoriasis? Some people who have a family history of psoriasis never develop the disease. Stress, skin injuries, a strep infection, certain medications, and sunburn are some of the potential triggers known. Drugs that can trigger psoriasis are anti-malarial drugs, beta-blockers (drugs used to treat hypertension and heart disease), and lithium. Dermatologists have seen psoriasis suddenly appear after a person takes one of these drugs have a strep infection or experiences another trigger. Is psoriasis contagious? No, you cannot catch psoriasis from another person or give it to someone by touching them, and it cannot be spread to other parts of the body.