Plaque psoriasis is a long-lasting autoimmune disorder that causes skin cells to grow rapidly, resulting in the development of thick, red, scaly patches known as plaques on the skin. These plaques can be uncomfortable, itchy, and may even bleed. People with plaque psoriasis frequently go through flare-ups, during which their symptoms worsen before getting better. The exact cause of plaque psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a mix of genetic and environmental factors.