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Psoriasis

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to build up rapidly on the surface, forming thick, scaly plaques. It affects roughly 2 to 3% of the population, and about 1 in 4 people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis, a related condition that can cause permanent joint damage if it isn’t caught early. At Genesis Dermatology in Jupiter, FL, board-certified dermatologists manage psoriasis skin symptoms and coordinate care when joint involvement is suspected.
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What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system mistakenly accelerates skin cell turnover, causing cells to build up on the surface faster than they can shed. That buildup forms the thick, scaly plaques characteristic of the condition. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form, accounting for nearly 90% of cases, though several other types exist.

Psoriasis is driven by a combination of genetics and immune system activity, and flares are often triggered by stress, infection, certain medications, or skin injury (a phenomenon called the Koebner response, where new plaques form at sites of trauma).

How to Detect Psoriasis

Common signs of psoriasis include:
  • Raised, red or discolored patches covered with silvery-white scale
  • Plaques commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, hands, feet, and lower back
  • Nail changes, including small pits, yellowish discoloration, separation from the nail bed, or debris building up underneath
  • Itching or a burning sensation at plaque sites
  • Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, which can signal psoriatic arthritis

When Should You See a Doctor?

See a dermatologist if:
  • You notice a new, persistent scaly rash that isn't improving
  • Nail changes are accompanying your skin symptoms
  • Plaques aren't responding to over-the-counter treatments
  • Your plaques are spreading or worsening
  • You develop joint pain, stiffness, or swelling alongside skin symptoms, which warrants prompt evaluation and possible referral to rheumatology

What Happens If Psoriasis Is Left Untreated?

Left untreated, psoriasis plaques tend to spread and thicken over time, and the underlying inflammation driving the condition doesn’t resolve on its own. If psoriatic arthritis develops and goes unaddressed, it can cause progressive, permanent joint damage; early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve the odds of preventing that damage before it happens.

Beyond the skin and joints, the chronic inflammation associated with psoriasis has been linked to broader health considerations that make consistent management worthwhile beyond appearance alone. The emotional and social impact of visible, untreated plaques is also significant for many patients, another reason to treat psoriasis proactively rather than waiting for it to worsen.

The Genesis Dermatology Process

Psoriasis treatment is tailored to how much of your skin, and which parts of your life, it’s affecting:
  • A consultation covering your skin, nail, and joint symptoms, along with your personal and family history
  • Topical treatments, such as corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs, for limited, mild-to-moderate plaques
  • Phototherapy or systemic medications, including biologics, for more extensive or treatment-resistant psoriasis
  • Coordination with rheumatology if joint symptoms suggest psoriatic arthritis
  • Guidance on managing common triggers, including stress and skin injury
  • Regular follow-up, since psoriasis is a chronic condition that benefits from ongoing monitoring and adjustment

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Psoriasis responds best to consistent, personalized treatment, especially before joint symptoms develop. Schedule a consultation with the board-certified dermatologists at Genesis Dermatology in Jupiter, FL, to build a plan for your skin.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition and cannot be spread through contact with another person.
Common triggers include stress, infections, certain medications, cold or dry weather, and skin trauma like cuts or sunburn. Triggers vary from person to person, and identifying yours is part of long-term management.
There’s no cure yet, but modern treatments, including biologics, can bring many patients to clear or nearly clear skin and keep symptoms well controlled long-term.
Watch for joint pain, stiffness (especially in the morning), swelling, or fatigue alongside your skin symptoms. If you notice any of these, tell your dermatologist promptly, since early treatment helps prevent permanent joint damage.
Biologics have a strong safety profile for most patients and have transformed psoriasis treatment, but they do require monitoring and screening beforehand. Your dermatologist will review your health history to determine if you’re a good candidate.
The chronic inflammation involved in psoriasis has been associated with an increased risk of certain other health conditions, which is one more reason consistent treatment matters beyond just the skin.