Psoriasis is a prevalent skin condition characterized by an overactive immune system that mistakenly attacks skin cells. This abnormal immune response speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, leading to the development of red patches on the skin’s surface. These patches can be accompanied by itchiness and discomfort, and their size, severity, and coverage can vary significantly. The specific symptoms experienced by individuals depend on the type of psoriasis they have, although all types typically involve the formation of patches on the skin.
Psoriasis: Identifying White, Scaly Plaques
One of the most common forms of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis. These distinctive patches are characterized by the presence of white, scaly plaques on the skin’s surface. Typically found on the scalp, knees, elbows, and back, these plaques can also appear in other areas of the body. The white scales observed on these plaques are a result of excessive skin cell production, causing dead skin to accumulate.
Nail Problems Caused by Psoriasis
Psoriasis can have a significant impact on the appearance and health of fingernails and toenails. Nail psoriasis often manifests itself in various ways, including pitting, discoloration, thickening of the nail bed, onycholysis, brittleness, and even a potential link to nail fungus.
One of the most common signs of nail psoriasis is pitting, which is characterized by the formation of small depressions on the surface of the nails. These depressions are usually pinhead-sized and can affect one or multiple nails.
Another common symptom is nail whitening or yellow-red discoloration. The nails may lose their natural color and develop an abnormal shade, which is often a result of the inflammation caused by psoriasis affecting the nail bed.
In some cases, psoriasis can cause the skin underneath the nails to thicken. This thickening can lead to discomfort and pain, as well as changes in the overall appearance of the nail.
Onycholysis, a condition in which the nails become loose or separate from the nail bed, can also occur in individuals with nail psoriasis. This can be a distressing symptom, as it affects the stability and integrity of the nails.
Nail brittleness is another common issue associated with psoriasis. The nails can become weak, fragile, and prone to breakage, leading to a crumbling or peeling appearance.
The specific symptoms experienced by individuals with nail psoriasis can vary depending on which part of the nail structure is affected. However, many of these effects are attributed to the accelerated process of keratinization, which is the formation of new nails.
It is worth noting that there may be a potential association between nail psoriasis and nail fungus. While the exact relationship between the two conditions is not fully understood, some studies suggest a possible link.