Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes a scaly rash and can occur on any part of the body. Psoriasis commonly affects the knees. Psoriasis on the knees is not typically itchy or painful but can cause a person to feel self-conscious when wearing certain types of clothing. Psoriasis is categorised as an immune-mediated disease that causes skin cells to grow and multiply abnormally resulting in inflammation in the body. It is a chronic disease with no known cure, and may lead to other health issues, such as psoriatic arthritis.
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Symptoms
Psoriasis on the knees is usually on the front of the knee and presents as a large patch with silvery scales or plaques on top and a well circumscribed border. These plaques may appear red or salmon pink on paler skin tones and purple or brown on darker skin tones, and can be quite thick and dry. If the plaques are significantly thick, cracks in the skin are more likely to occur and will cause pain and discomfort. Psoriasis on the knees can increase a person’s chance of developing psoriatic arthritis which can be debilitating, affecting activities of daily living.
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Causes
The cause of psoriasis is not clear but the immune system and genetics both play a role in its development. Trigger events such as stress, injury to the skin, weather, illness, allergies, food, alcohol or the environment may alter the immune system leading to symptoms of psoriasis. Stress is one of the most common triggers of psoriasis and psoriasis may also lead to increased stress. The knees are an area of the body that is leaned on and is rubbed against by clothing. This can result in a process known as Koebnerization, in which injury to the skin potentially leads to a psoriasis flare-up.
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Treatment
There is no known cure for psoriasis, therefore the goal of treatment is symptom management. Stopping skin cells from growing so quickly and removing scales will ease symptoms of psoriasis. It is best to use a mild and fragrance-free soap when bathing and apply moisturiser daily to maintain the health of the skin. Topical creams and ointments containing corticosteroids, retinoids or coal tar will help with inflammation and scaling, as does natural or artificial light therapy. Oral or injected medications may be required if other treatments are not effective. Relaxation techniques, stress management and increased awareness of triggers can also help to reduce the frequency of psoriasis flares. This is best managed by your primary care professional.
