Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis

What is Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis?

Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis is a common, long-term autoimmune skin condition that manifests as red, itchy or scaly patches of skin on the body. It affects approximately 10-20% of people with psoriasis, commonly appearing on the scalp, elbows, knees, trunk or nails. Psoriasis occurs when the immune system mistakenly signals skin cells to grow and divide too quickly, leading to thick patches of red, scaly skin.

What Causes Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis?

Although the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, it is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Common triggers include:

Infection
Injury to the skin
Stress
Heavy alcohol consumption
Smoking
Certain medications

What are the Symptoms of Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis?

The most common symptoms of moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis include:

Itchy, reddened patches of skin
Raised, silvery-white patches of skin caused by a buildup of dead skin cells
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Inflamed, swollen joints
Burning or stinging sensation on the skin

How is Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis Diagnosed?

To diagnose moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis, the doctor will examine your skin and ask about your medical history. The doctor may also need to take a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. In some instances, the doctor may order blood tests to check for other conditions or to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms.

How is Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity and type of psoriasis and may include topical medications, phototherapy, systemic medications and even biological therapies. Your doctor may recommend a combination of treatments to achieve the best results. The goal of any treatment is to reduce inflammation, reduce skin cell turnover, soothe itching and stop the spread of the disease.