Psoriasis – Psoriatic Arthritis – Behçet’s Disease

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-communicable skin disorder of immune origin, characterized by periods of flare-ups and remissions. It presents with red, well-defined plaques on the skin covered with silvery scales. Lesions are most commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, palms, and soles. In some cases, the nails may also be affected. The condition may be associated with other systemic manifestations and comorbidities.

Prevalence and Demographics of Psoriasis

Psoriasis can occur in both men and women of any age, most commonly beginning in young adulthood. It affects approximately 2–3% of the global population. Factors such as genetics, stress, infections, and environmental triggers play a significant role in its development.

What is Psoriatic Arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease classified among the spondyloarthropathies and associated with psoriasis. It is characterized by joint inflammation, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can affect any joint, as well as tendons and ligaments (enthesitis), and in some cases the spine may also be involved. Disease severity ranges from mild to severe, with the potential for permanent joint damage if not treated promptly.

Prevalence and Demographics of Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis occurs in about 20% of patients with psoriasis. It usually develops in adults, most commonly between the ages of 30 and 50. In most cases, skin psoriasis precedes arthritis, but in some patients, arthritis may appear simultaneously with or even before skin symptoms, making diagnosis more challenging. Both men and women are equally affected.

What is Adamantiades–Behçet Disease?

Adamantiades–Behçet disease is an autoimmune systemic vasculitis of unknown cause. It is characterized by oral and genital ulcers, ocular manifestations, skin lesions, and systemic vasculitis. Other manifestations can include arthritis and involvement of the central nervous system.

Prevalence and Demographics of Adamantiades–Behçet disease

It can affect men and women of any age, most commonly between 20 and 40 years old. Young men tend to experience more severe forms of the disease. The condition shows a distinct geographic distribution, being more common in the Far and Middle East and countries around the Mediterranean. In these regions, the annual incidence is approximately 1 in 10,000, while in Europe and North America it is around 1 in 500,000.