Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes rapid skin cell growth, leading to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin's surface. These patches can be itchy and sometimes painful, often appearing on areas like the elbows, knees, and scalp. The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an immune system problem with T cells and neutrophils.
This condition can vary in severity, with some people experiencing only a few small patches, while others may have widespread coverage. Psoriasis is not contagious, and its symptoms can be managed with treatments such as topical creams, phototherapy, and systemic medications.