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There are several types of psoriasis. Each type of psoriasis has unique “signs.” Doctors look for signs during a physical exam so they can distinguish one type of psoriasis from another. Examples of signs include descriptions of the location and shape and pattern of the lesions. Symptoms are words that patients use to describe how their disease feels. Psoriasis is typically asymptomatic, but the affected skin may elicit discomfort due to shedding or fissuring. Most types of psoriasis are classically not itchy.
The following is a brief outline of each type of psoriasis and a description of the accompanying signs and symptoms.
Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form. It is named for the “plaques,” or lesions, that are characteristic of this type of psoriasis. Plaques tend to be stable and slow growing, and they may remain unchanged for long periods of time.
Signs and symptoms include:
Guttate Psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis is most often triggered by bacterial infections, such as streptococcus ( strep throat ), and is most common in childhood or young adulthood.
Signs and symptoms include:
Inverse Psoriasis
Most commonly found in skin fold areas of the body, such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and genital areas. This type of psoriasis is also known as flexural psoriasis.
Signs and symptoms include:
Erythrodermic Psoriasis
This is the least common form of the disease. It can be triggered by severe sunburn, use of certain drugs, or abrupt withdrawal of oral steroids.
Signs and symptoms include:
Pustular Psoriasis
This form of psoriasis may be triggered by medication, emotional stress, infections, abrupt withdrawal of systemic steroids, or exposure to certain chemicals. It is a more rare form of psoriasis.
Signs and symptoms include:
References:
American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: http://www.skincarephysicians.com/psoriasisnet/index.html .
National Psoriasis Foundation website. Available at: http://www.psoriasis.org/home/ .
Last reviewed November 2008 by Ross Zeltser, MD, FAAD
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.
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