What chronic skin condition is characterized by dry, scaly skin and the accumulation of dead cells?

The condition referred to is psoriasis, which is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder that leads to the rapid growth of skin cells. This accelerated cell turnover causes cells to accumulate on the surface of the skin, forming thick, silvery scales and dry, red patches that can be itchy and painful. The primary characteristic of psoriasis is the excessive proliferation of skin cells, which results in the build-up of dead skin cells rather than their normal shedding process.

This condition can affect various parts of the body, including the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Psoriasis is not merely a cosmetic issue; it can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and may be linked to other health conditions, such as arthritis.

Other options may involve skin irritation or inflammation but do not specifically include the distinctive accumulation of dead skin cells associated with psoriasis. Eczema, for instance, is typically associated with itchy, inflamed skin rather than the characteristic scaling seen in psoriasis.