Psoriasis is a skin disorder characterized by inflammation and scaling. The specific reason for it is unknown. However, genetics is suspected. Many researchers believe that an aberrant immune response sets off psoriasis, hence the term "autoimmune-mediated."

According to research, psoriasis has been linked to an increased risk of acquiring certain malignancies. You can take measures to control or lower your cancer risk even if you have psoriasis. To understand the relationship and form a strategy, read on.

Psoriasis – What is it?

Psoriasis may be defined as an autoimmune disease. Your immune system is responsible for warding off disease-causing microbes and other invaders. Those with psoriasis have an immune system that overreacts to a fake threat.

As a result, new skin cells proliferate below the skin's surface. Every few weeks, your skin is expected to shed its dead cells and be replaced by new ones that have risen to the surface.

New skin cells rise to the surface regularly in people living with psoriasis. This might cause areas of your skin's surface to become thick with dead skin.

Relationship To Cancer

Cancer and psoriasis have not been linked the way smoking conclusively, and lung cancer has. Inflammation is the common denominator, it seems.

The danger of developing cancer is raised when inflammation persists over time. The skin, internal organs, joints, and blood vessels can all be inflamed with psoriasis. Studies have shown that psoriasis patients have a higher chance of developing cancer.

Psoriasis has been linked to an increased risk of numerous malignancies, including those of the upper respiratory/digestive tract, liver, respiratory system, pancreatic, and urinary tract, as shown by a study of 37 papers and publications.

According to this meta-analysis, psoriasis has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia, lymphoma, and non-lymphoma Hodgkin's. Another study found that psoriasis patients had a much-increased risk of developing cancer.

Psoriasis was associated with an increased risk of non-melanoma skin malignancies, lymphoma cancers, and cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, pharynx, colon, lung, and kidney.

Can Cancer Risk Be Reduced By Using Psoriasis Treatments?

Drugs that inhibit the proliferation of skin cells are used to treat psoriasis. Biologics, or medications derived from live organisms, have been investigated for their potential to increase cancer risk in those with a compromised immune system.

Biologics were not linked to an increased risk of cancer in a meta-analysis of eight research published in the British Journal of Dermatology.

According to credible studies, those who have received at least 250 sessions of UV light therapy to treat their psoriasis patches may have an increased risk of acquiring squamous cell carcinoma.

Can Skin Cancer Look Like Psoriasis?

Psoriasis and skin cancer are two different diseases that have several subtypes. However, some kinds of skin cancer may manifest with outward signs that resemble psoriasis. You should consult your doctor if you observe any unusual changes in your skin's appearance.

Psoriasis

The pink or red coloration and silvery white scales are more common in persons with lighter skin tones. It might look salmon-colored with white scales on medium skin tones.

Psoriasis may seem violet, and the rankings may be gray on darker skin tones. It might be a light brown color or a really dark brown that's hard to make out. Find out how psoriasis of various forms may manifest on darker skin tones.

Psoriasis symptoms may also include:

• fragile and easily broken skin
• stinging, itching, or pain
• thickened nails

Skin Cancer

Changes in the skin's surface that may be reliably attributed to a reputable source often include the following:

• a solid, taut feel
• often elevated, shining, pearly, or waxy
• odd-colored
• flaking, crusting, or bleeding
• hazy or jagged contours

Differences

Psoriasis is characterized by widespread skin damage. Though it may affect any part of the skin, skin cancer is often localized to places with many suns.

It's not uncommon for psoriasis to go through cycles of flare-ups and remissions. When left untreated, skin cancer can progress and cause more severe symptoms.

The Bottom Line

Psoriasis patients have a slight but noticeable increase in cancer risk. Although psoriasis is chronic and untreatable, its effects on one's health can be mitigated by adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Maintaining good health is something you and your doctor or another healthcare practitioner should discuss frequently. Go over the importance of cancer screenings, especially for skin cancer.

People can reduce their risk of cancer by reducing smoking and other risky habits. Tobacco and alcohol reduction increased physical activity, and less sun exposure are all examples of alterations that might be made.