Dr. Schachter discusses psoriasis
What exactly is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a non-contagious, commonly experienced skin condition in which rapid skin cell reproduction results in red, dry, sometimes scaly patches of thickened skin. The skin scales and dry flakes are believed to result from the accelerated build-up of skin cells. Psoriasis most frequently affects the skin of the knees, elbows, and scalp.
Psoriasis is currently considered a long-term, chronic skin condition. It has an unpredictable course, variously improving and worsening. Occasionally, psoriasis may clear for years and remain in remission.
Some of Dr. Schachter's patients report worsening of their symptoms in the colder winter months. Many patients show improvement in the warmer months, warmer climates, or with increased sunlight exposure.
It's possible to have such a mild case of psoriasis (small, faint dry skin patches) that some people may not even realize that they have a medical skin condition. Other people have such severe psoriasis that virtually the entire body can be covered with thick, red, scaly skin.
Patients with a more severe form of psoriasis may suffer social embarrassment, job stress, emotional distress, and other personal issues because of the condition of their skin.
Psoriasis is seen everywhere in the world, in all races, and both genders. Psoriasis can affect people at any age, from infants to elders. Most commonly, though, Dr. Schachter's patients are first diagnosed in early adulthood.
What are the causes of psoriasis?
Regrettably, the exact cause remains unknown. There is most likely a combination of factors, including heredity and the environment. It's common for psoriasis to occur in members of a family. The immune system is believed to have a major effect. After decades of research looking into many causes, the single factor responsible for psoriasis is still not known.
Dr. Schachter will be happy to answer all your questions about psoriasis when you meet with him in his Toronto office.
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