Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disease. This module focuses on chronic plaque psoriasis (CPP), the most common presentation, and considers how community pharmacy technicians can support treatment use and ongoing patient self-management.

CPP affects around 3 per cent of the UK population. Patients may feel that healthcare professionals sometimes lack enough knowledge to support them, so pharmacy teams have an important opportunity to improve understanding, confidence and care when dealing with this debilitating and serious skin condition.

Psoriasis was once widely regarded as ‘just a skin problem’, but it is better understood as a non-contagious, multisystem inflammatory disorder. Although not life-threatening, it can have a considerable impact on a patient’s quality of life.

Psoriasis occurs in both sexes equally and commonly first presents between 15 and 25 years of age, with another peak between 55 and 60 years.

The visible nature of psoriasis can contribute to social stigmatisation, stress, depression and physical limitations. For some people, visibility is reported as one of the most difficult aspects of living with the condition.

Several forms of psoriasis are recognised, but CPP accounts for up to 90 per cent of cases. This module focuses on CPP and the role of pharmacy technicians in recognising, supporting and referring patients appropriately.