Psoriasis vulgaris and Psoriasis pustulosa – Epidemiology, Quality of Life, Comorbidities and Treatment

The prevalence of psoriasis is 2-3% in European Countries, therefore psoriasis is one of the most frequently occurring inflammatory skin diseases. Psoriasis results from an interaction of genetic factors and environmental conditions such as infections, smoking or intake of certain drugs. Psoriatic arthritis is diagnosed in about 20% of patients with psoriasis. Pustular forms are much more rarely seen and have a genetic background distinct from plaque psoriasis. Psoriasis is associated with a multitude of comorbidities such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension and dysfunctions in lipid metabolism. Quality of life is markedly reduced in psoriasis patients and many of them suffer from depression and anxiety. An interdisciplinary treatment of psoriasis and its comorbidities is therefore essential. Today, adequate therapy according to medical guidelines is able to heal skin lesions and to improve quality of life.