Psoriasis is a common autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches. About 7.5 million people in the United States have psoriasis, and the condition can have a significant impact on their quality of life.

While psoriasis is not directly linked to cancer, some studies have suggested a higher risk of certain types of cancer in people with psoriasis.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the skin. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to rapid growth and scaling on the surface of the skin.

The symptoms of psoriasis can vary, but often include red, scaly patches that may be itchy or painful.

There are several types of psoriasis, including:.

Plaque psoriasis: the most common type, characterized by raised, red patches with silvery scales
Guttate psoriasis: characterized by small, red spots on the skin
Pustular psoriasis: characterized by white, pus-filled blisters on the skin
Inverse psoriasis: affecting skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts
Erythrodermic psoriasis: a rare and severe form of the condition that can cover the entire body with red, inflamed skin.

Causes of Psoriasis

The exact cause of psoriasis is not known, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Researchers have identified several genes that may be involved in the development of psoriasis, and certain triggers, such as infections, stress, and injury to the skin, can also contribute to the condition.

Is Psoriasis Linked to Cancer?

While psoriasis itself is not considered a type of cancer, some studies have suggested a link between psoriasis and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Skin Cancer

Psoriasis can increase the risk of skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). These types of skin cancer are usually not life-threatening, but they can cause skin damage and disfigurement if not treated.

People with psoriasis should protect their skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation with clothing, hats, and sunscreen.

In rare cases, a type of skin cancer called melanoma may also develop in people with psoriasis. Melanoma is a more aggressive form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body and can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early.

People with psoriasis should monitor their skin for any changes in moles or other skin lesions and seek medical attention if they notice anything unusual.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system.

Some studies have suggested a higher risk of lymphoma in people with severe psoriasis, particularly those who have received systemic treatment with medications that suppress the immune system. However, the overall risk of lymphoma in people with psoriasis is still considered low, and most people with psoriasis do not develop lymphoma.

Other Cancers

Some studies have also suggested a higher risk of other types of cancer in people with psoriasis, such as lung and liver cancer.

However, these findings are not consistent, and more research is needed to determine if there is a direct link between psoriasis and these types of cancer.

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a common autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches.

While psoriasis is not directly linked to cancer, some studies have suggested a higher risk of certain types of cancer in people with psoriasis, such as skin cancer and lymphoma. People with psoriasis should take steps to protect their skin from UV radiation and monitor their skin for any changes in moles or other skin lesions. If you have psoriasis and are concerned about your risk of cancer, talk to your doctor.