Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and the development of red, scaly patches on the skin called plaques. It is often most recognizable by the dermatological presentation of the disease, characterizedby large or small, red, scaly patches on the skin. These patches are most often located on the joints, trunk, scalp, arms, legs, face, and back. The disease affects millions of people worldwide and manifests in varying degrees of severity, ranging from mild plaque psoriasis to severe erythrodermic involvement. Current treatments for psoriasis-including topical agents, phototherapy, oral immunomodulators, and biologic drugs, target inflammatory pathways but remain limited for individuals with biologic-resistant psoriasis. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has emerged as a therapeutic approach due to the immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties of mesenchymal stem cells. Early clinical studies show promising results, including improved quality of life for psoriasis patients, reductions in Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores or Body Surface Area (BSA) scores, and even long-term remission in a few cases. While there is currently no known cure for psoriasis, mesenchymal stem cell therapy has the potential to correct the flaws in the immune system to promote the development of the disease, leading researchers to believe this treatment has to potential to one day become a holistic cure. This paper reviews the pathology of psoriasis, current therapies, and available clinical evidence supporting MSC-based treatments while highlighting future directions, limitations, and potential clinical applications. 

Keywords

psoriasis, mesenchymal stem cells, immunotherapy, biologic-resistant psoriasis, pasi score, chronic inflammation