Psoriasis is a skin condition, caused by an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakes healthy skin cells for outside intruders. This results in the primary symptom – splotchy patches of dry, reddish and scaly skin. It can also affect the extremities, including toenails and fingernails. Additional symptoms include itching, pain and sleep disruptions caused by acute flare-ups. Topical solutions, phototherapy, and systemic drugs can all improve quality of life for patients, and helps to limit the spread of outbreaks and the severity of symptoms. However, as with all other autoimmune disorders, there is no outright cure currently available.
