Psoriasis can affect anyone. It most often occurs between the ages of 10 and 30, but it can occur at any age. Psoriasis affects as many as 7.5 million people in the United States.

The main symptom of psoriasis is red patches of skin covered with silvery scales. Other symptoms may include dry, cracked skin that may bleed; itching, burning or soreness; thickened, pitted or ridged nails; and/or swollen/stiff joints. Psoriasis may also be associated with other conditions such as diabetes, depression, and heart disease.

A skin doctor (dermatologist) will examine your skin and look at your medical history to arrive at a diagnosis of psoriasis.  In rarer cases, the doctor may take a section of the affected skin (a biopsy) and examine it under the microscope.

Mild psoriasis affects less than 3% of the body. To make this clearer, look at the surface of your hand, including the fingers; this area is equal to about 1% of body surface area. Moderate psoriasis affects 3–10% of the body, and severe psoriasis affects over 10% of the body. However, psoriasis severity may also be measured by how psoriasis affects a person’s quality of life. Psoriasis that affects particularly useful areas—hands, face, or feet—may be considered more troublesome. Treatment options frequently depend on the level of severity.

For mild cases, topical agents such as moisturizers and over-the-counter or prescription creams and shampoos are usually used. For moderate cases, a combination of treatments is typically used, which may include options such as light or laser therapy. For more severe cases, systemic medications, including biologic medications, are often used, particularly when psoriasis significantly impacts quality of life.

Psoriatic Arthritis occurs frequently in patients with psoriasis and involves joint inflammation and pain. If left untreated it can eventually cause disability.

Unfortunately, psoriasis cannot be cured. However, treatment can significantly reduce symptoms, even in severe cases.