A-Z OF SKIN

There are many different types of psoriasis.

• Plaque psoriasis occurs in 90% of people affected by psoriasis.¹ It is often characterized by thick, sharply edged (marginated), red, scaly lesions. Plaque psoriasis may be seen on any area of the skin, but the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp are most commonly affected by the condition.

Less common forms of psoriasis include:

• Inverse (flexural) psoriasis occurs in the armpits, groin, between the buttocks, in the belly button (umbilicus), the ears and other areas where skin rubs against skin. It is often characterized by sharp-edged patches with little or no scale.
• Palmoplantar psoriasis occurs on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet. It is often characterized by scaling, redness or pustules (small blister or pimple on the skin containing pus).
• Guttate psoriasis is commonly seen in young adults 2-3 weeks after they have had tonsillitis or a viral infection. It develops rapidly and is often characterized by widespread, small, thin, teardrop lesions. It usually improves over a period of 2-3 months.
• Pustular psoriasis is a very rare form of psoriasis which appears suddenly and presents as small pustules developing in inflamed skin and spreading rapidly.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare form of psoriasis which can be serious. Red, inflamed areas of psoriasis spread to involve all of the skin.  These individuals have usually had a history of stable plaque psoriasis in the past that changes into the widespread erythrodermic variant. Possible triggers of erythrodermic psoriasis may include irritating agents applied to the psoriasis, quick withdrawal of corticosteroids, certain medications or severe emotional stress. Oral medications may be used to control the condition.