Psoriasis is a serious non-contagious chronic inflammatory condition of the skin.

Psoriasis is a serious chronic skin condition characterised by abnormal epidermal proliferation (excessive growth of the epidermis). It has a strong genetic component. Immune system disorders play an important role in the skin changes that occur in psoriasis. There are two basic types of psoriasis: type I early onset psoriasis diagnosed in young patients under 40 years of age, and type II late onset psoriasis occurring over the age of 60 years. Type I psoriasis has a peak incidence between the ages of 18–22 years, and is strongly genetically determined (a family background).  

Normal epidermis undergoes a natural process of exfoliation. In this process, epidermal cells move from the basal layer up to the top layer of the skin. One turnover cycle takes about 28 days. In psoriasis, epidermal cells are replaced every 3-4 days because of accelerated skin cell proliferation. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease, which means the body's internal protection system (immune system) starts attacking itself, triggering an inflammatory response, which is associated with the risk of developing skin manifestations and damage to internal organs as well, affecting the patient's general health condition.

Psoriasis is a chronic conditions and there is no cure for it. This illness comes and goes in cycles of remissions and flare-ups. The main goal in the management of psoriasis is to alleviate psoriatic symptoms which are manifested in various degrees of severity. Treatment of psoriasis should preferably be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional.

Early diagnosis and initiation of treatment are very important in the management of psoriasis. Psoriasis is an incurable illness that can vary in severity; if it is not properly managed, psoriasis can affect the whole body. Unless it is regularly treated, psoriasis can cause serious health complications. There are many health issues associated with psoriasis, including dysfunctions of internal organs and joints (psoriatic arthritis), which may lead to significant physical impairment. In addition, psoriasis may raise the risk of diabetes, heart diseases, and depression. It is not a life-threatening condition, but it deeply affects the health-related quality of life.