Psoriasis Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

The red, thickened, and rough patches of psoriasis may occur anywhere, but are commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, palms, and soles. Other symptoms include:

Silvery white scales
Pitted or dented fingernails and/or toenails
Red lesion in the folds of the buttock
Joint pain suggesting arthritis

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Your skin and nails will be examined. There are no specific blood tests or diagnostic procedures for psoriasis. Sometimes a skin biopsy will be done to confirm the diagnosis.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

2 comments

Imagine the isolation that comes with a chronic autoimmune disease that appears on the skin and affects appearance.

View Comments Marielaina Perrone DDS commented 3 days ago.

Using Online Communities to Connect With Others
By Andrew Schorr HERWriter on May 22, 2012 - 2:50pm
1 comments

Empowered

Sufferers of psoriasis know the symptoms all too well -- dry, scaly skin, inflammation and lesions that can cause severe discomfort, as well as an unsightly skin appearance.

View Comments Anonymous commented 16 weeks ago.

The Psoriasis and Arthritis Connection
By Susan Cody HERWriter Guide on December 12, 2011 - 7:18pm
Psoriasis affects millions of people worldwide. Take our quiz to see if you know what to look out for.

Psoriasis: Take Our Quiz and Find Out What it is
on November 27, 2011 - 11:47pm
0 comments

Empowered

Coal tar may perform at a par with tazarotene gel for stable plaque psoriasis. Aloe vera is applied to the skin.

Psoriasis: Symptoms, Treatments and Prevention
By EmpowHER on November 14, 2011 - 7:48am
0 comments

Empowered

The weakened immune system of a person with AIDS or some type of autoimmune disorder may put them at risk for psoriasis.

Psoriasis: Causes, Risks and Description
By EmpowHER on September 24, 2011 - 4:27pm
0 comments

Supporter

Unlike healthy skin, the skin of a psoriasis sufferer regenerates too quickly, and does not slough off quickly enough.

Psoriasis of the Liver May Respond to Dietary Treaments
By Jody Smith HERWriter on August 23, 2011 - 6:54pm
0 comments

Supporter

If you have psoriasis there is a chance that you may have a gluten sensitivity or even celiac disease. Celiac disease and psoriasis are both autoimmune disorders.

Psoriasis and Celiac Disease may be Linked
By Jody Smith HERWriter on August 21, 2011 - 2:12pm
0 comments

Supporter

Sufferers from psoriasis may be in for some good news.

Psoriasis and the Role of Immunological Memory
By Jody Smith HERWriter on August 18, 2011 - 8:43am
0 comments

Supporter

Psoriasis is a painful skin condition that generally appears between the ages of 15 and 35.

Psoriasis: Painful Condition Takes Many Forms
By Jody Smith HERWriter on August 15, 2011 - 6:59pm
2 comments

Supporter

Approximately 7.5 million people in the United States have psoriasis, as their immune systems mistakenly target healthy cells in an autoimmune response.

View Comments Anonymous commented 39 weeks ago.

Psoriasis May Benefit From Vitamin D In Several Forms
By Jody Smith HERWriter on August 14, 2011 - 11:53am