What are the causes of the Koebner phenomenon?
The Koebner phenomenon is a popular aspect of psoriasis, but it is not completely understood. More research needs to be done to understand what factors are responsible for the phenomenon. According to studies, it can be triggered by the increase in the synthesis of certain proteins and substances. In most cases, the substances are inflammatory. They include:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor
- Auto-antigens
- Tryptase
- Stress proteins [3]
- Nerve growth factor
- Interleukins [4] IL-6, IL-8, IL-17, and IL-36y
According to a 2019 study, between 25 to 30 percent of people with psoriasis experience the Koebner phenomenon. It can be triggered by:
- Tattoos
- Stretch marks
- Excoriation, or skin picking disorder
- Skin trauma, such as cuts, bruises, burns, sunburns, and animal stings or bites
- Drug reactions
- Viral infection
- Shingles [5] (rare)
- Radiation therapy [6]
Scientists have recently discovered a condition where superficial injuries or wounds can lead to more severe responses than lesions. In most cases, skin damage can also result in psoriatic arthritis [7] (PsA). Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease. It does not occur due to wear and tear on the joints. People with psoriasis have a strong immune system that attacks health tissues in joints. The overactive nature of your immune system can lead to inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the joint.
According to science, the occurrence of psoriatic arthritis after an injury or trauma to the surface of your skin is known as deep Koebner phenomenon.