Psoriasis: highlights on pathogenesis, adjuvant therapy, and treatment of resistant and problematic cases (II)

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory disease of the skin and joints. Its etiology has been linked to complex interactions between predisposing genes and the environment. The pathophysiology of psoriasis is characterized by epidermal hyperproliferation, enhanced antigen presentation, T-helper1 cytokine production, T-cell expansion, and angiogenesis. Tremendous advances in our understanding of this disorder have led to the development of novel therapeutics. In this review, we focus on specific advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis and the unrecognized severe effects of psoriasis, and the systemic treatment of resistant and problematic cases that are of major clinical relevance to the clinician.