Psoriasis is a common, chronic, scaly rash that affects people of all ages (about 2% of the population). There is a genetic predisposition to psoriasis, this means it tends to run in families. Psoriasis is also influenced by many environmental factors.  Fortunately, it is not contagious and is not due to an allergy.

The most common ages for psoriasis to first appear are in the late teens and in the 50s. It affects men and women equally, although in children, girls are more commonly affected than boys. Psoriasis is commonly found on elbow and knees but it can be on the scalp and other bodily skin areas.

Psoriasis is often so mild it is barely noticed by the affected person, but it can occasionally so severe the patient must be admitted to hospital for treatment. It may or may not be itchy. About 5% of those with psoriasis will also develop joint pains (psoriatic arthritis), which may involve one or more joints. This can be very debilitating. There is no complete cure for  psoriasis but patients skin can be made more comfortable and hopefully go into remission  with  modern treatment options available today .