One of the most disturbing aspects of psoriasis is its appearance of raised red areas on the skin. Thought to be caused by a flaw in the immune system, it is a chronic condition that flares up when triggered by stress, environmental factors, and infections, and can sometimes be fatal. There are a number of treatments, including vitamins A and D, coal tar, steroids, ultraviolet light, and methotrexate. Psoriasis: A to Z features Dr. John Koo, a dermatologist at the San Francisco Medical Center, who talks about the development of psoriasis, and how patients try to cope with its effects. ~ Alice Day, Rovi