Psoriasis
In this disease, immune cells in the blood attack newly produced skin cells. This causes the overproduction of new skin cells beneath the surface of the skin which triggers the symptoms of psoriasis.
Genetics
There are many factors that are involved in this complex condition. Research strongly suggests that genetics play a role in the development of psoriasis. Indeed, having a family member with psoriasis increases the risk of developing it. The genetic basis of psoriasis is supported by association studies with human leucocyte antigens (HLAs), genome-wide linkage scans, and candidate gene studies within and outside the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region.
Although a few genes involved in the immune system function have been identified as potential factors (such as HLA-Cw6), it seems like this is a multigenomic condition (more than 60 disease susceptibility genetic regions identified) and the link isn’t fully understood yet.
Each type of psoriasis may involve changes in a number of genes. In addition, some genetic changes may be present across various types of psoriasis. One gene can also have a range of variants. Changes in the HLA complex may increase the risk of psoriatic arthritis. This gene group plays a role in distinguishing between foreign invaders and body tissue.
Other contributing factors to psoriasis can be stress, smoking, obesity, cold and dry weather, HIV infection, drugs (beta-blockers, antimalarials), alcohol, withdrawal of corticosteroids, injury & mechanical trauma, and streptococcal infections.
Lifecode Gx® Reports
It is also apparent that there is considerable overlap between the molecular pathways that are involved in psoriasis and those that lead to other inflammatory or autoimmune diseases in humans. — Alshobaili et al., 2010
Although we don’t test for specific psoriasis genes, we test for several genes in our Thyroid Balance Report involved in the immune system function and inflammation such as HLA-DQA1, HLA-DQB1, CTLA4, IL6 and TNF. Variants on these genes increase the risk of developing autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis.