Question 1

What is Psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin due to rapid skin cell turnover. It is caused by an overactive immune system where T cells and inflammatory proteins like Interleukin-17 (IL-17) attack healthy skin cells. The Interleukin 17, Serum test is the most important blood test for psoriasis because it measures the key inflammatory protein that drives the autoimmune skin inflammation.

Question 2

What causes psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system where T cells mistakenly attack healthy skin cells, triggering rapid skin cell production. The inflammatory protein Interleukin-17 (IL-17) plays a central role in this autoimmune response, causing the characteristic red, scaly patches. Genetic factors, particularly the HLA-Cw6 gene variant, increase the risk of developing psoriasis, while environmental triggers like stress, infections, skin injuries, and certain medications can activate or worsen the condition.

Question 3

What is the best test for psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

The Interleukin 17, Serum test is the most important blood test for psoriasis because it measures IL-17 levels, the key inflammatory protein that drives skin inflammation and abnormal cell growth in psoriasis patients. Elevated IL-17 indicates active autoimmune processes causing your symptoms. The HLA-A, B, C, DRB1 and DQ High Resolution genetic test is also essential as it identifies the HLA-Cw6 gene variant strongly linked to early-onset psoriasis, helping determine your genetic risk and potential disease severity. Together, these tests provide a complete picture of both current immune activity and inherited predisposition.

Question 4

When should I get tested for psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice red, scaly patches on your skin that itch or burn, especially on your elbows, knees, scalp, or lower back. Testing is important if you have a family history of psoriasis or other autoimmune conditions, or if you experience joint pain alongside skin symptoms. You should also consider testing if your skin symptoms worsen after infections, stress, or starting new medications, as these can trigger psoriasis flares. Early testing helps identify the underlying immune dysfunction so you can start appropriate treatment before the condition worsens.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis causes raised, red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales that may crack and bleed. You might experience itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas, particularly on your elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of feet. Many people also develop pitted, thickened, or discolored nails that may separate from the nail bed. In some cases, psoriasis causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling known as psoriatic arthritis, which affects fingers, toes, and the lower back.

Question 6

Who is at risk for psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of psoriasis have significantly higher risk, especially if they carry the HLA-Cw6 genetic variant. Those with other autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease are more susceptible to developing psoriasis. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and chronic stress increase your risk of triggering or worsening the condition. Certain infections, particularly strep throat, can trigger psoriasis in children and young adults, while some medications like lithium, beta-blockers, and antimalarial drugs may activate the disease.

Question 7

What happens if psoriasis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated psoriasis can progress to affect larger areas of your body, causing increasing discomfort, pain, and social embarrassment that impacts quality of life. Chronic inflammation from psoriasis raises your risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, which causes permanent joint damage and disability if not managed early. Long-term psoriasis also increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and depression due to persistent systemic inflammation. The psychological impact of visible skin lesions can lead to social isolation, anxiety, and reduced self-esteem, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.

Question 8

Can psoriasis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis is primarily diagnosed through clinical examination of your skin, but blood tests play a valuable supporting role in confirming the diagnosis and understanding disease activity. The Interleukin 17, Serum test measures inflammatory markers elevated in psoriasis patients, while genetic testing like HLA typing identifies inherited risk factors. Blood tests also help rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as fungal infections or eczema, and monitor for complications like psoriatic arthritis. These tests provide objective measurements that guide treatment decisions and track how well your therapy is working.

Question 9

How is psoriasis treated?

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis treatment depends on severity and includes topical creams with corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and retinoids for mild cases. Moderate to severe psoriasis often requires phototherapy using ultraviolet light to slow skin cell production, or systemic medications like methotrexate, cyclosporine, and oral retinoids that suppress the overactive immune system. Biologic drugs that specifically target IL-17 and other inflammatory proteins provide highly effective treatment for many patients with severe psoriasis. Lifestyle modifications including stress management, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding triggers, and moisturizing regularly help control symptoms and reduce flares.

Question 10

How can I prevent psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot prevent psoriasis if you have genetic predisposition, you can reduce flares by identifying and avoiding personal triggers like stress, skin injuries, infections, and certain medications. Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise, as obesity increases inflammation and psoriasis severity. Limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking, both of which significantly worsen psoriasis symptoms and reduce treatment effectiveness. Keep your skin well-moisturized, avoid harsh soaps and hot water, and protect your skin from cuts, scrapes, and sunburns that can trigger new psoriasis patches.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

Applying aloe vera gel directly to psoriatic patches can soothe inflammation and reduce redness and scaling. Taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements from fish oil helps decrease systemic inflammation and may reduce psoriasis severity. Regular oatmeal baths and applying coconut oil or other natural moisturizers keep skin hydrated and reduce itching and discomfort. Managing stress through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can prevent flares, as stress is a common psoriasis trigger. Some people find relief with turmeric supplements or topical applications due to its anti-inflammatory properties, though you should discuss any supplements with your healthcare provider.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Psoriasis Blood Test

What is Psoriasis?

What causes psoriasis?

What is the best test for psoriasis?

When should I get tested for psoriasis?

References

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Us vs. Them

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Ask AI