What role does the immune system play in the onset of plaque psoriasis?
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    What role does the immune system play in the onset of plaque psoriasis?
    Updated:05/07/2024
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    SunriseDreamer
    Updated:19/07/2024

    The immune system plays a critical role in the development of plaque psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition.

    Q: What is Plaque Psoriasis?

    Plaque psoriasis is characterized by raised patches of inflamed skin covered with silvery scales. It is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.

    Q: How does the immune system contribute to plaque psoriasis?

    The immune system’s involvement in plaque psoriasis is primarily attributed to T cells (a type of white blood cell). When triggered by unknown factors, these T cells become activated and release cytokines and other inflammatory mediators, leading to:

    • Increased skin cell proliferation
    • Inflammation
    • Disruption of skin barrier function
    Q: What are the main immune responses involved?
    1. Innate Immune Response: This initial response includes skin-resident immune cells such as dendritic cells, which present antigens to T cells.
    2. Adaptive Immune Response: Activated T cells release pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha, IL-17, and IL-23, exacerbating inflammation and skin cell turnover.
    Q: What factors can trigger immune dysregulation in plaque psoriasis?
    • Genetic predisposition
    • Environmental triggers (e.g., infections, injuries, stress)
    • Obesity
    • Smoking and alcohol consumption
    Q: Immunological Markers in Psoriasis

    Several cytokines and immune cells are significantly elevated in psoriasis patients:

    Cytokine Function in Psoriasis
    TNF-alpha Promotes inflammation and skin cell proliferation.
    IL-17 Key player in sustaining the inflammatory response and skin changes.
    IL-23 Stimulates T cell activation and survival.
    Q: What is the significance of studying the immune system in plaque psoriasis?

    Understanding the immune system’s role is vital for developing targeted therapies. Treatments like biologics work by inhibiting specific components of the immune response:

    • TNF inhibitors (e.g., adalimumab)
    • IL-17 inhibitors (e.g., secukinumab)
    • IL-23 inhibitors (e.g., guselkumab)
    Mind Map of Immune System’s Role in Plaque Psoriasis:

    Immune System & Plaque Psoriasis

    • Activation of T cells
      • Cytokine Release
        • TNF-alpha
        • IL-17
        • IL-23
    • Skin Cell Proliferation
    • Inflammatory Response
    • Therapeutic Targets
    Statistics on Plaque Psoriasis
    Characteristic Statistics
    Prevalence in Adults Approximately 2-3% globally.
    Onset Age Typically between 15-35 years.
    Genetic Associations Family history in about 30% of patients.
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