Psoriasis Does not Always Represent a Risk Factor for Coronavirus

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – What is the risk to people, particularly children with an autoimmune disease such as psoriasis? Psoriasis is a common skin disease. Chronic and non-contagious, it may be linked to the immune system or have other underlying reasons.

Raquel Stucchi, a consultant for the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases and a Professor at UNICAMP (University of Campinas), explains that autoimmune diseases have different profiles and that the most severe can aggravate a Covid-19 condition. Another factor that can affect the body’s defense is the treatment for these diseases, using anti-inflammatory drugs and corticoids in high doses.

In relation to psoriasis, Stucchi says that the disease has very mild forms, which do not lead to alterations in the immune system, and others that require more attention. The risk factor arises “in cases where there is joint involvement, where powerful immunosuppressive drugs are required”.