title: [Psoriasis, biblical afflictions and patients' dignity].
abstract: The currently accepted Hebrew word for psoriasis is 'sapachat'. The word 'sapachat' is biblical and its original meaning is unknown. Similar uncertainty applies also to the biblical word 'tzaraat', the currently accepted Hebrew term for leprosy. This article discusses possible explanations of the biblical terms 'sapachat' and 'tzaraat'. The link between 'sapachat' and psoriasis was made only several decades ago. The word 'sapachat' conveys a definite negative connotation, and imposes an emotional burden on psoriatic patients. We therefore recommend preferable use of the word 'psoriasis' and avoid using the offending term 'sapachat'.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Dermatology, Clalit Health Services, Department of Dermatology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer Sheva.
authors.forename: Avi
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Shai
authors.forename: Daniel
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Vardy
authors.forename: Alex
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Zvulunov
mesh_terms: D001294:Attitude to Health; D049690:History, Ancient; D006801:Humans; D007557:Israel; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000266:history* / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D012649:Self Concept