Stress Alert: Scientists Uncover Shocking Trigger Behind Psoriasis Relapse

Innovative research has provided compelling evidence that perceived stress can directly trigger the relapse of psoriatic skin lesions. The study, presented today at the EADV Congress 2024, is the first to scientifically validate this connection in vivo.

The study examined the immediate effects of stress on the skin, particularly on those who were already suffering from the chronic condition of psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition that results in scaly and inflamed lesions on the surface of the body. The researchers wanted to find out what really happens in the body when we're under stress.

Led by a world-renowned expert in the field of dermatology, the study saw its researchers exposing individuals with psoriasis to standardized stressful situations while closely monitoring the skin's response. By analyzing blood samples, doctor observations, and state-of-the-art imaging techniques, researchers found that people who had been subjected to various stressors experienced instant clinical changes and inflammatory responses in the skin, typical of a psoriasis relapse.

Dr. Soeren Seidenberg (the principal investigator of the study) noted, 'Our work shows an undeniable relationship between the onset of psoriatic skin lesions and the impact of stress. By providing concrete evidence of a direct cause-and-effect between heightened stress perceptions and psoriasis symptoms, we see an opportunity to create stress-reducing interventions for at-risk patients.'

This study verifies an understanding long-assumed to be fact by numerous patients and medical care professionals about psoriasis. This understanding, until now unproven, represents a critical step forward in exploring the origins of this disease, identifying therapeutic targets, and reducing unnecessary stress on the body. For numerous millions of sufferers worldwide, the possibility to get relief from their symptoms is one step closer.