1062-1065 Aaren Vedangi

INTRODUCTION Psoriasis: It is an immune-mediated disease that affects the skin [1]. It is not contagious and can be inherited. It occurs when the immune system mistakes a normal skin cell for a pathogen and sends out faulty signals and by which the body produces an immune response against some of its own cell [2]. In this, the person’s immune system and genes play key roles. In studying the immune system, it was discovered that when a person has psoriasis, the T cells a type of white blood cell that fights unwanted invaders such as bacteria and virusesmistakenly trigger a reaction in the skin cells. This is why psoriasis is referred to as a “T cell-mediated disease” [3]. This reaction activates a series of events, causing skin cells to form in days rather than weeks. The body does not shed these excess new skin cells, so the cells pile up on the surface of the skin and lesions form. There are five types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic. It is seen worldwide in all races, both sexes and can be seen in people of any age [4]. Signs and symptoms include patches of raised red skin with thick silvery scales. The affected skin may be red and scaly or have pustules, depending on the type of psoriasis the individual has. There is currently no cure, but various treatments can help to control the symptoms.