The Different Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a relatively common skin condition that typically shows itself as dry, inflamed, itchy, and red skin patches. It is usually caused by a genetic condition, combined with an environmental trigger that encourages an improper immune system response. White blood cells within the body become overactive, and skin cells are produced more rapidly than normal. This leads to inflammation and a buildup of skin in some areas. In more severe cases, painful pustules may also form. There are a number of different types of psoriasis, each with their own particular symptoms and treatments.

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis, or psoriasis vulgaris, is the most common form of this skin condition, making up over 80% of the cases. This is a chronic form is psoriasis characterized by thick flaky patches of skin called plaques. It may appear on any part of the body, but is especially common on the scalp, knees, and elbows. The inflamed patches of skin tend to come and go over time. The red area is usually covered by a silvery buildup of skin cells called scale. Plaque psoriasis is a chronic condition, and as such, it cannot be cured. However, there are many treatments available to keep the symptoms under control.

Guttate Psoriasis

This form of psoriasis is more common in children and young adults. It appears as small, inflamed bumps across large portions of the skin, and is usually the result of an infection such as strep throat. The symptoms can appear several weeks after the illness. Some cases will go away on their own without any intervention. Otherwise, antibiotics can be used to clear up this form of psoriasis.

Inverse Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis is characterized by red, smooth patches in areas of the body where the skin folds, such as the buttocks, under the breast, and around the groin or armpits. In these areas, sweat and consistent rubbing can irritate the skin, or cause and overgrowth of yeast. It tends to be more common in individual that are overweight. Topical treatments, such as corticosteroids, retinoids, and coal tar, are used to treat this condition.

Pustular Psoriasis

This is a rare form of psoriasis that appears as painful pus-filled blisters. It is usually accompanied by fever and chills, and requires hospitalization. The lesions may be chronic or temporary, and appears on many areas of the body. Pustular psoariasis on the palms of the hands, or soles of the feet, tends to be chronic and disabling. Acrodermatitis continua is another form that involves the fingertips, and can damage the nails.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

This is a very uncommon form of psoriasis that presents itself as a red rash that covers most of the body. The skin becomes thick and flaky, and may either itch or burn. It is treated by a combination of systemic and topical medications to control inflammation. Antibiotics may also be used to prevent or stop infection in the patient.

Psoriatic Arthritis

With psoriatic arthritis, the patient has both symptoms of psoriasis and arthritis, i.e. red inflamed patches of skin, and swelling in the joints. It is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body’s immune system attacks the tissues of the body. It is estimated that 5 to 8 percent of those with psoriasis also have symptoms of arthritis.