Psoriasis pathophysiology and impact on life

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder with various morphology, distribution, severity, and course of disease. The goal of the management is to control disease activity to a level that allows a sufficient quality of life with minimal toxicity from the treatment itself. Unfortunately, 25% of patients suffering from psoriasis experience major psychological distress. Its chronic nature with associated comorbidities has a negative impact on quality of life. We conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed and EMBASE from January 1996 to March 2017. The following search terms were used: psoriasis, pathogenesis of psoriasis, psoriasis management, quality of life in psoriasis patients. We tried to study the pathogenesis, and management of psoriasis, and understand its effect on the quality of life of patients. Due to the chronic nature and its obvious visibility on skin, many patients suffer from major psychological adverse effects. In majority of the time the health care providers fail to recognize or treat such comorbidities. Healthcare providers must be educated to provide patients with ways to tackle issues with multiple aspects, including psychological, in the management plan for better results.