Genetics

 

We each have around 20,000-25,000 genes which influence every part of our body, from our height to our hair colour. Genes also determine how our body’s cells behave.

Certain genes have been identified as being linked to psoriasis. However, psoriasis does not develop in everyone who has a family history. Around 30% of people with plaque psoriasis have a genetic history of the condition.

Further reading

Nicoloff BJ and Nestle F. Recent insights into the immunopathogenesis of psoriasis provide new therapeutic opportunities. J Clin Invest 2004; 113 (12): 1664-1675

Gelfand JM et al. Prevalence and treatment of psoriasis in the United Kingdom. Arch Dermatol 2005; 141: 1537-1541

Sabat R et al. Immunopathogenesis of psoriasis. Experiment Dermatol 2007; 16: 779–798

Henseler T, Christophers E. Disease concomitance in psoriasis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1995; 32: 982–6

International Human Genome Sequencing Consortium 2004

Griffiths CEM, Barker JNWN. Pathogenesis and clinical features of psoriasis. The Lancet. July 21st  2007;370:263–71