Psoriasis involves complex interactions between adaptive and innate immunity. Cytokines play a crucial role, mediating interactions between T cells, dendritic cells, keratinocytes, and macrophages. Over the past decade, biologics targeting IL-23, TNF-α, and IL-17 have transformed treatment options, offering significant relief from the chronic and recurrent symptoms that impact patients’ emotional, psychosocial, and physical well-being.

Psoriasis manifests variably, influenced by genetic factors like HLA-Cw6 and environmental triggers such as infections and stress. Pathologically, chronic inflammation, hyperproliferation of the epidermis, altered apoptosis, and neo-angiogenesis underpin its cutaneous manifestations, characterized by rapid skin cell turnover leading to thickened, scaly plaques. Effective management involves understanding triggers such as skin injury, medications, and lifestyle factors. It addresses symptoms across diverse forms—plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular, erythrodermic, nail, and psoriatic arthritis—through tailored therapeutic approaches that integrate topical treatments, systemic therapies, and lifestyle modifications.

Reference: Dhabale A, Nagpure S. Types of Psoriasis and Their Effects on the Immune System. Cureus. 2022;14(9):e29536. doi: 10.7759/cureus.29536.