Psoriasis is a persistent hereditary skin condition that can range from mild with small patches on small areas of the body to severe and chronic with patches covering most of the body’s surface. The patches of psoriasis are pink thickened areas ranging in size with silvery-white scales. The patches are most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, and knees but can be located anywhere on the body. Psoriasis can occur anytime from childhood to old age but commonly occurs between 15 and 35 years of age or between the ages of 50 and 60. Though it often occurs in members of the same family, it is not contagious. There are treatment options for patients with all forms of psoriasis ranging from creams to oral medications to injections to medical ultraviolet light.
