Is Psoriasis an Autoimmune Disease?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to scaling on the skin's surface. It is often classified as an autoimmune disease due to the involvement of the immune system in its pathology.
In psoriasis, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, resulting in an inflammatory response. This process is mediated by T-cells and various cytokines, which drive the hyperproliferation of skin cells. This overproduction causes the classic symptoms of psoriasis, including red patches, scaling, and sometimes itching.
While psoriasis is primarily focused on the skin, it is also associated with systemic complications. Many individuals with psoriasis experience comorbidities such as psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome, further supporting its classification as an autoimmune disorder.
In summary, psoriasis is indeed considered an autoimmune disease due to its immune-mediated origin and the inflammatory processes involved. Therapy often focuses on modulating the immune response, thereby alleviating symptoms and improving the quality of life for those affected.