Psoriasis

Ψωρίαση

Precision Medicine

The most pioneering therapeutic approach for Psoriasis

Iator, relying on cutting-edge medical practices, diligently applies advanced Precision Medicine therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat Psoriasis, a widespread autoimmune condition affecting millions globally.

At Iator, through appropriate Genetic, Genomic, and Metabolic Tests, we identify an individual’s predisposition to develop Psoriasis later in life, as well as the actual causes of the disease in those who already suffer. With strictly personalized medical intervention, we achieve targeted prevention and effective treatment.

Precise High-Resolution Tests
Pinpointing Predisposition to Psoriasis
Uncovering the Genuine Causes of the Disease
Implementing Advanced, Tailored Medical Protocols
Comprehensive Restoration of All Organ Systems
Significant Enhancement in Quality of Life

Precise Medical Treatment for Psoriasis

Commonly applied treatments such as topical ointments, cyclosporine administration, methotrexate, and retinoids focus on alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis. However, these treatments often induce stress-related conditions, resulting in a range of unwanted side effects.

People with psoriasis should consult a specialized physician, preferably a dermatologist, as conventional medical approaches may not effectively identify and address the root causes triggering the disease.

The main causes of autoimmune diseases involve reduced production or insufficiency of enzymes, hormones, and other essential elements for the human body’s metabolism.

These dysfunctions result in a biochemical deviation affecting the function of cells, tissues, and organs. The overall biochemical and hormonal balance, known as homeostasis, plays a crucial role in determining our health.

At Iator, we can address Psoriasis naturally by utilizing specialized tests that detect imbalances in the body, leading to the dysregulation of the immune system and ultimately the manifestation of the disease.

A comprehensive and personalized treatment plan is being meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of each individual’s body. This plan is the outcome of a strategic design, and:

Enhances immune functionality

Facilitates the suppression or inactivity of genes bearing deleterious information, while promoting the sustained activity of those harboring protective information.

Restores cellular biochemical balance and hormonal equilibrium to optimal levels.

Encompasses a personalized dietary program that addresses individuals’ nutritional requirements, considering their metabolic and genetic peculiarities (Precision Nutrition).

Thoroughly reinstates the functionality of all physiological systems, yielding sustained and concurrent results over the long term.

The sophisticated personalized medical treatment protocols, systematically administered by IATOR with remarkable efficacy, are designed to optimize therapeutic outcomes.

Devoid of pharmaceuticals, exclusive diets, and abstemious measures.
Tailored therapeutic regimens, devoid of chemical residuals and derivatives.
Interventions that operate individually or in synergy, without accompanying side effects.

Read more

Psoriasis – What is it

Psoriasis is a painful, chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease manifested as a long-term skin condition, significantly impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. Researcher Dr. Usman Khalid explains that Psoriasis should be considered a systemic inflammatory disease affecting the entire body, not just a localized skin issue.

In psoriasis, there is a significant reduction in the lifespan of skin cells. Typically lasting 28-45 days, this duration is shortened to approximately 4 days. Consequently, cells undergo rapid multiplication and differentiation compared to the normal physiological process.

The migration of T lymphocytes from blood vessels to the dermis disrupts normal skin cell function, triggering the formation of psoriatic lesions. The immune system triggers an accelerated maturation and multiplication of skin cells.

Is psoriasis contagious?

Psoriasis is not a contagious disease.

Psoriasis – Statistical data

It is estimated that 1.5-3% of the population suffers from some form of psoriasis. In Greece, the number of affected individuals is around 200,000. It occurs with the same frequency in both genders. The onset of the disease can occur at any age.

3 out of 4 patients with moderate or severe psoriasis consider it a serious problem.
26% of patients change or stop their daily activities.
74% have low self-esteem.
83% often or always avoid social activities, such as swimming.

Psoriasis – Symptoms

Psoriasis manifests as red, erythematous papules that merge into round or oval plaques, distinct from the surrounding healthy skin. These plaques are covered by silvery-white scales that, when removed, may cause pinpoint bleeding spots, known as the Auspitz sign.

Where does it appear on the body?

Psoriasis can manifest on various body parts, but it commonly appears on the scalp, hands, feet – especially on the knees, gluteal cleft, and nails (psoriatic nails). Scalp psoriasis may result in itching and, in severe cases, potential hair loss.

Psoriasis symptoms may extend to facial areas, specifically the eyebrows, upper forehead, and the hairline. Additionally, psoriasis can potentially affect the male genitalia and the genital organs of females.

Overall, the distribution of psoriasis severity among patients is as follows: 65% with mild disease, 25% with moderate disease, and 10% with severe disease.

Psoriasis Manifestations

There are six main forms of psoriasis: There are six primary forms of psoriasis, each with distinct characteristics:

Plaque Psoriasis (Common Psoriasis): This is the most prevalent form, affecting around 80% of individuals with psoriasis. It presents as raised, red, and scaly patches known as plaques.
Guttate Psoriasis: Accounts for approximately 18% of psoriasis cases. Characterized by small, droplet-like lesions scattered on the skin.
Inverse Psoriasis: Also known as flexural psoriasis. Occurs in skin folds and creases, presenting as smooth, red lesions.
Pustular Psoriasis: Formation of pustules (pus-filled blisters) on the skin. Divided into localized (affecting specific areas like palms and soles) and generalized (affecting the entire body).
Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Involves widespread redness and severe scaling of the skin. Considered a severe and potentially life-threatening form.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Characterized by joint inflammation and is often mistaken for rheumatoid arthritis due to similar symptoms.
HIV-Induced Psoriasis: Occurs in individuals with HIV and may have unique features.
Psoriatic Onychia: Involves psoriasis-related changes in the nails.
Each form varies in severity and presentation, contributing to the complexity of psoriasis.

Psoriasis – Causes

Genetic Factors

One-third of patients with psoriasis have a positive family history, with one or more members of their family suffering from some form of the disease. To date, over 20 candidate genetic loci and more than 1300 genes related to psoriasis have been identified. The genetic region that appears to be more strongly associated with the onset of the disease is PSORS1.

Additionally, researchers at the University of Washington in St. Louis, USA, identified mutations in the CARD14 gene in two families with a history of the disease. Mutations in the gene increase the activity of the NF-kB factor, which promotes gene expression and produces molecules that “call” immune system cells to the skin, triggering the initiation of the inflammatory cycle, a key characteristic of psoriasis.

Elicitating factors

These are factors that appear to contribute to the manifestation of the disease only in a genetically predisposed individual. These include the following:

Infections

Streptococcal infections, particularly tonsillitis, play a role in specific forms of psoriasis in children, known as the guttate form. Other inflammations, primarily in the respiratory system, as well as vaccinations, can also influence the disease. Interestingly, there is an observed improvement in psoriatic lesions following the resolution of inflammation.

Injuries

Various types of injuries can induce the development of psoriatic plaques, a phenomenon known as the Koebner phenomenon.

Endocrine Factors

Imbalances in the function of the pituitary gland, thymus, thyroid, or adrenal glands, along with instances of hypoglycemia, can occasionally expedite the onset of psoriatic lesions.

Ultraviolet Solar Radiation

Usually, sunlight has a beneficial effect on psoriasis, although in some cases (20%), it can act as a triggering factor for its onset.

Psychogenic Factors

Under stress conditions, hormones are released from the body, causing disruptions in the immune system’s function. Unpleasant events, such as the loss of a loved one, have been linked to the onset or exacerbation of psoriasis symptoms in those already affected (psychogenic psoriasis).

This creates a vicious cycle, as the appearance of psoriatic lesions generates more psychological stress. It’s not coincidental that individuals with psoriasis often experience anxiety, stress, and depression.

Gut Microbiota

The majority (80-85%) of our immune system is situated in the intestine. This implies that a major contributor to autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis, is the impaired function of the intestinal tract.

When the epithelial cells lining the intestinal wall are compromised, undigested food particles, microbes, toxins, and other undesirable substances can “leak” into the body. This triggers an immune system response, leading to inflammation. In the context of psoriasis, the skin is adversely affected by this process.

Vaccinations and Medications

Induced psoriasis from medications can occur with beta-blockers, lithium, antimalarial drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), terbinafine, calcium channel blockers, captopril, glyburide, colony-stimulating factors, interleukins, interferons, lipid-lowering drugs, and paradoxically, TNF inhibitors, as well as alcohol.

Extreme temperature fluctuations
Increased alcohol consumption and smoking
Metabolic factors

Psoriasis – Associated Conditions

To date, more than 25 large studies have been conducted, highlighting the correlation between psoriasis and over 17 autoimmune diseases. Patients with psoriasis have a 50% higher likelihood of suffering from an autoimmune disease and double the chances of developing a second autoimmune condition.

Psoriasis has been linked to various additional health conditions. These encompass obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, kidney disease, and cardiovascular disorders.

Furthermore, individuals with psoriasis have a heightened risk, including a 52% increase for lung and bronchial cancer, a 46% elevated risk for pancreatic cancer, and a 43% greater probability of developing squamous cell skin carcinoma.

Psoriasis – Nutrition

A well-balanced diet is crucial in alleviating psoriasis symptoms. The condition may result in protein deficiency due to the shedding of proteins through dead skin. Therefore, incorporating protein-rich foods such as chicken, spinach, and olive oil into your daily diet is recommended. This helps maintain the body’s nutritional balance and supports overall skin health.

Additionally, Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily found in fish oil, significantly reduce inflammation. Psoriasis patients often have insufficient levels of Vitamin D, B12, and folic acid. Foods rich in Vitamin D and B12, such as seafood, aid in alleviating psoriasis symptoms. Supplementing with folic acid helps prevent blood clots and protects the cardiovascular system of individuals with psoriasis.

Substances with antioxidant properties, such as selenium, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, can counteract oxidative imbalance. Additionally, incorporating foods high in vitamin A (e.g., carrots, spinach) is recommended.

Foods prohibited for psoriasis patients include alcohol and gluten, found in barley and wheat. Consumption of foods that intensify body heat (spicy foods, fried items, processed foods) is also not allowed.

References

Kharaeva Z1, Gostova E, De Luca C, Raskovic D, Korkina L.Clinical and biochemical effects of coenzyme Q10, vitamin E, and selenium supplementation to psoriasis patients.1.Nutrition. 2009 Mar;25(3):295-302.
EFFECTIVENESS OF PROBiotics APPLICATION IN COMPLEX TREATMENT OF PSORIASIS.2 Millsop JW1, Bhatia BK2, Debbaneh M3, Koo J4, Liao W5.Diet and Psoriasis: Part 3. Role of Nutritional Supplements.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014 Sep;71(3):561-9.
Bhatia BK1, Millsop JW2, Debbaneh M3, Koo J4, Linos E4, Liao W5.Diet and Psoriasis: Part 2. Celiac Disease and Role of a Gluten-Free Diet.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014 Aug;71(2):350-8.
Brazzelli V1, Grasso V, Fornara L, Moggio E, Gamba G, Villani S, Borroni G.Homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folic acid levels in psoriatic patients and correlation with disease severity.Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2010 Jul-Sep;23(3):911-6.
Sardu C, Cocco E, Mereu A, et al. Population based study of 12 autoimmune diseases in Sardinia, Italy: prevalence and comorbidity. PLoS One. 2012;7(3):e32487. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0032487.
Wu CH, Chung PI, Wu CY, et al. Comorbid autoimmune diseases in patients with sarcoidosis: a nationwide case-control study in Taiwan. J Dermatol. 2017;44(4):423-430. doi:10.1111/1346-8138.13654.
Ruffilli I, Ragusa F, Benvenga S, et al. Psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and thyroid autoimmunity. Front Endocrinol. 2017;8:139. doi:10.3389/fendo.2017.00139.
Antonelli A, Delle Sedie A, Fallahi P, et al. High prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism in patients with psoriatic arthritis. J Rheumatol. 2006;33(10):2026-2028.
Furue M, Kadono T. “Inflammatory skin march” in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis [published online June 15, 2017]. Inflamm Res. doi:10.1007/s00011-017-1065-z.
Binus AM, Han J, Qamar AA, Mody EA, Holt EW, Qureshi AA. Associated comorbidities in psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2012;26(5):644-650. doi:10.1111/j.1468-3083.2011.04153.x.
Hsu LN, Armstrong AW. Psoriasis and autoimmune disorders: a review of the literature. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2012;67(5):1076-1079. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2012.01.029.