Basics of Psoriasis

A set of vocabulary flashcards focused on key terms and definitions related to the foundational understanding of psoriasis.

Psoriasis

A chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflamed, scaly plaques on the skin.

Pathogenesis

The origin and development of a disease.

Erythematous

Referring to abnormal redness of the skin due to blood vessel congestion.

Morphologic

Features that pertain to the form and structure of an organism or any of its parts.

Plaque psoriasis

The most common type of psoriasis, characterized by symmetric, well-demarcated reddish plaques with silvery-white scales.

Guttate psoriasis

Characterized by small, scaly, drop-like papules, often affecting multiple areas of the body.

Pustular psoriasis

Psoriasis associated with pustules that can develop around plaques or on the palms and soles.

Erythrodermic psoriasis

A severe form of psoriasis characterized by widespread redness and peeling of the skin.

Inverse psoriasis

Characterized by smooth, bright-red lesions occurring in skin folds.

PASI (Psoriasis Area Severity Index)

A measurement tool used to assess the severity of psoriasis by considering both the extent of skin affected and the severity of the lesions.

DLQI (Dermatology Life Quality Index)

A 10-item questionnaire that assesses the impact of skin disease on the quality of life of individuals.

Phototherapy

Treatment of skin diseases using ultraviolet light.

Biologic therapy

Treatment that uses biological agents to target specific parts of the immune system involved in the inflammatory process.

Corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory medications commonly used in the treatment of psoriasis.

Acitretin

A retinoid and active metabolite of etretinate used to treat psoriasis.

Biopsy

A procedure that involves taking a small sample of skin for examination to aid in diagnosis.

Comorbidities

The presence of one or more additional conditions co-occurring with a primary condition.

Pruritus

Itching or an unpleasant skin sensation.

Onycholysis

The loosening or detachment of the nail from the nailbed.

Hyperkeratosis

An overgrowth of the horny layer of the epidermis, commonly seen in psoriasis.

Pustules

Small, pus-filled blisters or pimples that are a characteristic of certain types of psoriasis.

Treatment adherence

The extent to which a person's behavior corresponds with agreed recommendations from a healthcare provider.

BSA (Body Surface Area)

A numerical score estimating the percentage of body surface affected by psoriasis.

Quality of Life (QoL)

A measure of an individual's general well-being, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and social functioning.

TNF inhibitors

A class of medications that block tumor necrosis factor, a substance in the body that causes inflammation.