It is a chronic, non-contagious skin condition characterised by inflammation, itching and scaling.
It is an autoimmune disease with a hereditary component.
It is associated with flares, relapses and symptoms of varying severity. It manifests as silvery patches of varying size with well-defined borders. Scratching the skin causes many of these patches to come off. It usually affects the scalp, face, back, palms, soles and elbows, but can occur on any part of the body.
It is diagnosed by clinical history and physical examination, but in some cases a skin biopsy may be needed.
There is no definitive cure, but outbreaks and symptoms can be reduced with phototherapy. Local treatment with emollients, topical corticosteroids, etc. may be sufficient in mild cases. In severe cases or those resistant to local treatment, intravenous drugs to reduce the autoimmune response may be needed.
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