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Psoriasis related information | Psoriasis VIDEO: Shock treatment for melanoma successful SYMPTOMS: Images and information on skin cancer symptoms Sunburn First Aid - Tips for Preventing Sunburn Last Updated: 11/19/2004 Related Encyclopedia • Psoriasis More... Related Healthscout Videos Psoriasis Psoriasis - The Disorder and Causes Psoriasis - Treatment Options Psoriasis - Causes and Treatment Options More... Psoriasis Psoriasis is a chronic, genetic, non-contagious skin disorder that appears in many different forms and can affect any part of the body, including the nails and scalp. Although the actual causes of psoriasis are debatable, genetic predisposition along with environmental triggers are generally considered to be the main reasons for the occurrence of the disease. Psoriasis most frequently affects the skin of the elbows, knees, back, buttocks and scalp. Normally the cells of the outer layer of the skin are constantly shed and replaced by new cells, which are produced by the basal layers. In psoriasis patients there is acceleration of the production of new skin cells. These cells accumulate, manifesting as thick, lumpy, and reddish flaky patches on the surface of the skin. Psoriasis treatments include: Topical - Mild to moderate psoriasis Phototherapy (usually ultraviolet) - Moderate to severe psoriasis Systemic (taken orally or by injection or infusion) - Moderate, severe or disabling psoriasis Overproduction of a cellular messenger called TNF (tumor necrosis factor) is believed to play a role in psoriasis. New systemic treatments can neutralize the excess TNF in the body to improve psoriasis symptoms.