Psoriasis: Myths and Truths

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition, characterized by the appearance of red plaques covered with silvery scales. The disease presents flare-ups and remissions, affecting approximately 2-3% of the population. In Greece, the number of patients is estimated to be around 200,000. Psoriasis affects both men and women, appearing from the 1st to the 10th decade of life.

Myth 1: Psoriasis is hereditary

Truth: Although Psoriasis is not considered a hereditary disease, it has a hereditary predisposition. According to research, the likelihood of developing psoriasis varies depending on family history:

4% likelihood with non-psoriatic parents
28% likelihood if one parent has psoriasis
65% likelihood with two psoriatic parents
84% likelihood with two parents and a sibling with psoriasis

Myth 2: Psoriasis is contagious

Truth: Psoriasis is not contagious. The confusion arises from the similarity of the name to leprosy, a contagious disease caused by a mite. Psoriasis, on the contrary, is not related to microbes and cannot be transmitted from person to person.

Myth 3: Stress causes psoriasis

Truth: Stress is not the cause of psoriasis, but it can be an exacerbating factor that worsens the disease. Other factors include infections, medications, seasonal changes, and injuries.

Myth 4: Psoriasis only affects the skin

Truth: Although psoriasis affects the skin, it is also associated with other diseases such as:

Obesity
Type 2 diabetes
Hypertension
Cardiovascular diseases
Depression

Psoriasis is now considered a systemic disease and early diagnosis is critical.

Myth 5: Psoriasis has the same form in everyone

Truth: There are many forms of psoriasis, such as plaque psoriasis, scalp psoriasis, nail psoriasis, and inverse psoriasis. There are also rarer forms, such as erythrodermic or pustular psoriasis, as well as psoriatic arthritis.

Myth 6: Psoriasis is incurable

Truth: Although there is no absolute cure for psoriasis, the disease can be largely controlled through appropriate treatments. Proper medication allows the symptoms to subside, similar to other chronic diseases like diabetes.

Myth 7: Psoriasis does not affect children

Truth: Psoriasis can also appear in children. It is estimated that about 20% of patients develop the disease before the age of 20. Pediatric psoriasis may present different symptoms and requires a special approach.

Myth 8: Special diet is necessary for psoriasis patients

Truth: Although diet alone does not cure psoriasis, it can help manage inflammation. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and polyphenols, improve symptoms. Foods such as seafood, plant oils, and dried fruits are recommended for psoriasis patients.

Proper diet, along with weight loss, can significantly improve patients' health and help manage the disease.