Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin condition that affects
about 1% (1 in 100) of the population. It results from rapid
multiplication of skin cells leading to thickening of the skin
and scaling. It is estimated that there are about 80 million
people with psoriasis throughout the world. In Singapore, it is
estimated that at least 40,000 persons are affected with
psoriasis. Psoriasis appears as red patches of skin covered with
loose silvery scales that flake off constantly. It can occur on
any part of the body although the knees, elbows, back and scalp
are common sites of involvement. Commonly, it begins as
persistent dandruff in the scalp before spreading elsewhere.
These may often be accompanying irritation or itch but the
severity of this may vary considerably from person to person.
Sometimes if the patches are thick and dry they crack and become
sore. Chronic plaque psoriasis is the most common form of
psoriasis. This commonly affects the scalp, knees and elbows and
umbilicus, although any part of the