There are many contradicting myths about psoriasis, its causes and its treatments. These misconceptions contribute to the social stigma faced by people with psoriasis, adding to the burden of managing the disease.
MYTH
Psoriasis is contagious.
FACT
Abnormal growth of skin cells in psoriasis results in thick, red, scaly, inflamed patches of skin, which are highly visible but not contagious.
MYTH
Psoriasis is just a skin disease.
FACT
Researchers have concluded that psoriasis is actually a disease of the immune system that causes the abnormal growth of skin cells. While a normal skin cell matures in 28 to 30 days and is shed from the skin's surface unnoticed, a psoriatic skin cell takes only 3 to 4 days to mature and move to the surface, resulting in cells piling up and forming the elevated red lesions.
MYTH
Psoriasis is easily diagnosed.
FACT
Diagnosing psoriasis may at times be difficult, as its initial symptoms can be mistaken for other dermatologic diseases such as eczema.
MYTH
Psoriasis can be cured.
FACT
Psoriasis is a chronic, life-long disease. There is no known cure, but psoriasis can be managed with treatments.
MYTH
There is a link between psoriasis and liver and kidney problems.
FACT
There is no known link between psoriasis and liver and kidney problems. Some psoriasis treatments may have adverse effects on the liver and kidneys.
MYTH
Psoriasis is caused by poor hygiene.
FACT
Psoriasis is a disease of the immune system and has nothing to do with poor hygiene. Triggers that can influence the course of psoriasis include infections, stress or worry, hormonal changes, injury to the skin, alcohol, obesity, poor diet, and certain medications.
MYTH
Psoriasis cannot be inherited.
FACT
In approximately one out of three patients, there is a family history of psoriasis. However, the disease also develops in people with no family history.
MYTH
The "heartbreak of psoriasis" is just a saying.
FACT
The psychological and emotional impact of psoriasis can be debilitating, especially when the disease is present on the hands, feet or face, where it can obstruct physical and social abilities. People with psoriasis report feeling embarrassed, angry, frustrated, depressed and even suicidal and often compare the dysfunction and disabilities to those experienced with other chronic diseases such as diabetes or cancer.
