Page 81 - LECTURE NOTES

♦ If the patient has wound, you should keep clean by using water and soap and

cover them with clean dressing and advice rest
♦ Oil such as vegetable oil or Vaseline should be applied to keep the skin in good

condition and smooth

♦ Make sure the patient is getting the ordered medication properly.
♦ Avoid discrimination and stigmatization

♦ Give health education on the disease condition to the family including

community

4.3.7 Psoriasis
Definition

Psoriasis is a chronic noninfectious inflammatory disease of the skin in which the

production of epidermal cells occurs at a rate that is approximately 6 -9 times faster
than normal rate. Increased proliferation of epidermal cells induced by abnormal

reaction of immune system.
In this condition the normal events to cell maturation and growth can not take place.

This abnormal process does not allow formation of the normal protective layers of the

skin.
The onset may occur at any age but is most common between the ages of 10 and 40

years, but may occur at any age.
It has a tendency to improve and then recur periodically through out life.

Cell proliferation is mediated by the immune system.

Cause

The exact cause of psoriasis is not well determined. However, there appears to be a
hereditary defect that causes over production of epidermal cell. A combination of

specific genetic make-up and environmental stimuli may trigger the onset of the
disease.

Aggravating factors/ triggering factor
♦ Emotional stress

♦ Anxiety

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