Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease in which skin cells begin to grow excessively due to overactivation of the immune system.

The skin becomes covered with red, thick, scaly patches. The elbows, knees and scalp are particularly affected. However, psoriasis can also occur in skin folds, on the nails and even cover the entire body.

A third of patients have joint problems. This may indicate psoriatic arthritis. People with psoriasis are also more susceptible to other conditions such as cardiovascular disease, liver, kidney and intestinal disorders, as well as anxiety disorders and depression.

Psoriasis research at Ghent University: https://psogent.ugent.be/

Triggers for psoriasis include skin injuries, infections, certain medications, sometimes exposure to the sun, smoking and alcohol. Good to know: psoriasis is not an infection and is therefore not contagious.

Two to three per cent of Britons have psoriasis. The disease affects people of all ages, but usually starts in young adulthood (twenties) or later in life (over sixty). In a third of patients, psoriasis also occurs in family members, which indicates a genetic predisposition.