Genetic and immunological aspects of the pathogenesis of psoriasis

: Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder, which occurs in about 1-3% of general population. Skin lesions are a result of hyperproliferation of epidermis and of time shortening of the transposition of keratinocytes from basal to corneal layer of epidermis. In healthy subjects this time is estimated on about 26-28 days, whereas in psoriatic individuals lasts only 3-4 days. Despite many investigations, the etiopathogenesis of psoriasis still remains unclear. Observations that psoriasis could occur in the same family members, indicated the importance of genetic factors. Moreover, high effectiveness of immunosuppressive drugs in the treatment of psoriasis suggested also a significant role of immune system in the development of this disease. Here, we present the current knowledge on the role of genetic and immunological factors in the development of psoriasis.