Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory, an autoimmune skin condition that causes scaly red patches on the skin surface. The speedy life cycle of skin cells results into rapid accumulation older cells on the skin surface. These patches can cause both itching and pain. Psoriasis can improve or get worse frequently. Normally, the patches occur around elbow or knee joints, but can also form on other body parts including hands, feet, neck, scalp, face etc. 

The symptoms vary among people, based on the type of psoriasis. It can be 

• Plaque psoriasis: The most common type causing red inflammatory patches.
• Guttate psoriasis:  Common in children, causes tiny pink spots around the arms, neck, and body.  
• Pustular psoriasis: Occurs in adults, causing pus-filled blisters along with large red, inflammatory skin plaques.
• Inverse psoriasis: Causes bright red, shiny, inflammatory skin patches under breasts, armpits, and around genitals
• Nail psoriasis: Causes abnormal growth, discoloration, detachment of finger and toenails.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis:  It’s a rare type, can occur all over the body causing peeling, itching, burning red rashes.
• Psoriatic arthritis: Causes swelled, painful join ts along with scales and skin inflammations. In severe cases, it can cause a permanent deformity. 

Psoriasis is believed to be associated with genetics, environmental conditions, stress, drinking and smoking, vitamin D deficiency, and skin injuries. Viral or bacterial infections, obesity, diabetes and heart diseases can act as triggers. Psoriasis is non-contagious and incurable but can be managed with medications.