Psoriasis can cause irritating, embarrassing skin symptoms, but effective treatments are available. HUMIRA, by Abott Laboratories, is one treatment that has been shown to be very effective in clearing up even moderate to severe cases.

There are several different types of psoriasis, but the most common type is called plaque psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis causes red, raised lesions (patches) that produce dead, flaky skin cells (scale).

What Causes Psoriasis?
While the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, researchers believe the protein TNF (tumor necrosis factor), or TNF, is involved. We all have TNF in our bodies, but in people with psoriasis, too much TNF is produced. This contributes to the inflammation and overproduction of skin cells leading to the formation of skin lesions.

Instead of maturing and falling off the body within about a month, like normal skin cells, psoriatic skin cells take only 3-4 days to mature and surface. Instead of falling off, the skin cells accumulate and form red, itchy, flaking skin patches (lesions).

The Link Between Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Up to 30% of people with psoriasis also get joint pain and stiffness. If you’re experiencing stiffness and joint pain—as well as the skin symptoms of psoriasis—it could mean you have a condition known as psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

PsA can cause progressive joint damage in addition to the red, itchy skin lesions of psoriasis. But HUMIRA can treat the joint pain and stiffness as well as the skin symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. HUMIRA is used to reduce the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in adults, may prevent further damage to your bones and joints, and may help your ability to perform daily activities. It can be used alone or with certain other medicines.