Living with an autoimmune skin disorder can be frustrating, confusing, and, at times, overwhelming. Psoriasis is one of those conditions that not only affects how our skin looks but also how we feel, physically and emotionally. At South Florida Multispecialty Medical Group, we believe that informed patients can make empowered decisions. That’s why we’ve created this definitive guide on psoriasis for anyone dealing with it, supporting someone who is, or simply looking to understand the condition better.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system speeds up skin cell production. While healthy skin replaces itself roughly every month, psoriatic skin renews in just a few days. The result? Thick, red, and scaly patches that often itch or hurt.
This isn’t a contagious skin problem—no one can “catch” psoriasis. It’s a misunderstood disease, and those affected often spend years managing flare-ups, emotions, and misinformation.
Globally, up to 3% of people live with psoriasis. In the U.S. alone, around 7.5 million adults are navigating this condition, making it one of the most common autoimmune skin disorders.
While we don’t yet have a complete picture of why psoriasis occurs in some individuals and not others, we do know it’s influenced by a combination of genetics, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers.
If a close family member has psoriasis, your chances of developing it significantly increase, suggesting a strong heredity link. However, not everyone with the genetic code will show visible symptoms.
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease. The immune system starts attacking healthy skin cells by mistake, accelerating skin cell turnover. This autoimmune chain reaction is central to the disease’s pathology.
Knowing your triggers helps you manage flare-ups effectively. It’s different for everyone, so tracking symptoms can be extremely helpful.
Psoriasis isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here are the main types we see and treat:
The most common form, affecting roughly 80–90% of patients. It appears as raised, inflamed, red lesions covered in silvery-white scales. They’re most common on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.
Usually begins in childhood or young adulthood. Lesions are smaller, drop-shaped, and often appear after a bacterial infection like strep throat.
Red, shiny lesions develop in body folds—such as underarms, behind knees, breasts, and groin areas. These areas are more prone to irritation from sweating and friction.
Characterized by white pustules (blisters of non-infectious pus) surrounded by red skin. It may affect specific areas like hands and feet or be widespread.
A rare but severe type, this leads to widespread redness, itching, and pain. It requires immediate medical attention.
Affects fingernails and toenails. You might notice pitting, abnormal nail growth, or discoloration. This often occurs with psoriatic arthritis.
Psoriasis symptoms vary by type, but there’s a common thread: skin inflammation. Typical symptoms include:
Some patients also develop fatigue, especially if systemic inflammation is involved.
Psoriasis doesn’t have a cure, but we have more tools than ever to manage it effectively—from skin creams to cutting-edge biologics. Treatment plans depend on severity, type, trigger identification, and a patient’s lifestyle.
These are typically first-line for mild to moderate psoriasis.
Using specific UV wavelengths can help reduce the immune response and slow skin cell turnover. Narrow-band UVB therapy is especially effective.
Used for moderate to severe cases or when psoriasis affects internal functions.
Biologic therapies are revolutionizing how we treat severe psoriasis. These medications target specific parts of the immune system involved in inflammation. Examples include:
At South Florida Multispecialty, we take time to match the right treatment with the person—not just the symptoms.
What we eat, how we move, and how we handle stress—all play a major role in disease control.
While lifestyle changes won’t replace clinical treatments, they act as powerful supporting strategies.
People with psoriasis are more than four times as likely to experience depression than those without the condition. Stigma, chronic pain, and social withdrawal all contribute. We’re committed to treating the “whole person,” not just the skin.
Psoriatic arthritis, a related inflammatory joint disease, affects about 30% of those with psoriasis. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent joint damage.
New studies are continually enhancing our understanding of psoriasis. Researchers are focusing on:
This is an era of hope. Patients today have multiple options and promising possibilities on the horizon.
Our dedicated dermatology and rheumatology teams at South Florida Multispecialty practice comprehensive and compassionate care. We understand the intricacies of psoriasis—how it affects the skin, joints, and the mind. From diagnosis to long-term follow-up, we guide our patients every step of the way.
We also personalize treatment plans, provide guidance on nutrition and mental health, and offer access to emerging therapies and clinical trials.
If you’re experiencing psoriasis symptoms or suspect a flare-up, we’re here for you. Connect with our specialists at South Florida Multispecialty Medical Group and take your first step toward comfort, clarity, and confidence.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder where skin cells multiply too rapidly. It’s typically diagnosed through physical examination by a dermatologist. In some cases, a skin biopsy may confirm the diagnosis.
Flare-ups may be triggered by stress, infections, certain medications, injuries to the skin, and weather changes. Underlying immune and genetic factors play the foundational role.
Plaque psoriasis features raised, red skin patches covered with silvery-white scales. It is the most common form compared to guttate, pustular, inverse, or erythrodermic types, which vary in appearance and location.
Options include topical creams, phototherapy, systemic medications, and biologics. Side effects range from skin irritation to immune suppression, so it's important to tailor treatment under expert care.
Yes, many people see improvement by managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding triggers, and following an anti-inflammatory diet alongside medical treatment.
Psoriatic arthritis is a related condition affecting joints. It occurs in about 30% of psoriasis patients and causes pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Yes, new biologics and gene-targeting therapies are emerging regularly, offering greater precision and fewer side effects than older treatments.
Consider mental health counseling, support groups, and stress-reduction techniques like meditation.
Your well-being is our top priority. Reach out today to discover how our dedicated team can support your health journey.
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