World Psoriasis Day: A Systemic View of the Disease

Every October 29, World Psoriasis Day aims to raise awareness of the medical and social burden of this chronic inflammatory disease. Although psoriasis primarily manifests on the skin, it is a systemic condition with repercussions that go far beyond what is visible. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disorder that mainly affects the skin, nails, and joints, and in some cases, it can extend to internal organs. The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) emphasizes that this condition, far from being just a dermatological issue, represents a multidimensional challenge that requires a comprehensive approach, continuous research, and public health strategies. Its onset is associated with multiple factors: genetic, immunological, and environmental. In children, the guttate form is linked to infectious processes; the inverse form affects folds such as the armpits, groin, or perianal area; and the erythrodermic form, which is more severe, involves generalized redness and scaling. The Koebner phenomenon, where lesions appear after a skin injury or irritation, illustrates its reactive nature. Diagnosis is made by dermatology specialists who, in addition to clinical observation, can use laboratory tests or skin biopsies. Treatment is tailored to the extent and severity of the condition and ranges from creams, ointments, and lotions to systemic drugs or immune modulators designed to control inflammation and reduce recurrence. World Psoriasis Day underscores the need for a broader medical perspective: understanding it not just as a visible disease, but as a complex immune disorder that requires interdisciplinary management strategies, patient education, and health policies that ensure equitable access to treatment.