Psoriasis is an immune system disorder that accelerates skin cell growth. This can lead to inflammation, cracking, and the shedding of white scales, commonly appearing on elbows, knees, the scalp, and other areas. Symptoms vary among individuals, and the disease is categorized into three stages based on symptom progression.

Stage 1: Flare-up

Symptoms worsen, lasting for weeks or months before subsiding. This occurs because skin cells in deeper layers develop and move to the surface more rapidly. This process usually takes about a month but can occur in just a few days for those with psoriasis.

Flare-ups can be unpredictable but are often triggered by various factors:

- Stress.

- Illness can cause flare-ups 2-6 weeks after infection.

- Skin injuries can lead to symptoms around 10-14 days later at the injury site.

- Weather changes, such as dry air or sunlight.

- Allergies, certain foods, alcohol, or environmental factors.

Avoiding these triggers can help prevent psoriasis flare-ups.

Stage 2: Improvement

With treatment, the scaly patches shrink, and pain and itching decrease. Doctors may use the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) to monitor a patient's response to treatment. This index assesses the redness, thickness, and scaling of psoriasis patches on a scale of 0-4, with 0 representing complete clearing and 4 indicating severe symptoms. The score also estimates the percentage of the head and neck, trunk, and lower limbs affected by psoriasis.

Treatment duration depends on the method. For example, topical treatments like creams and ointments are often the first recommendation. It may take up to 6 weeks to see improvement. Other medications have stronger side effects, including burning and skin irritation, but symptoms may subside within a week.

Stage 3: Remission

During remission, skin is typically symptom-free. Most individuals experience remission periods lasting 1-12 months. However, this doesn't signify a cure, and psoriasis can recur.

Proper treatment helps prolong remission. A 2021 US study surveyed 930 individuals with less than 3% body surface area affected by psoriasis. 51.7% were in remission, lasting an average of 31 months, and 79.1% of those in remission reported ongoing treatment.

Psoriasis can be long-lasting, with some types persisting throughout life. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), remission duration depends on the type and severity of psoriasis. Treatments can reduce severity, duration, and frequency of flare-ups, while accelerating recovery.

Anh Ngoc (Theo Medical News Today)