Psoriasis Specialist

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly, itchy patches of skin. It’s an immune-associated condition that triggers an overproduction of skin cells. 

The skin rash tends to occur in cycles, flaring up for a set period and then going away.

What are the types of psoriasis?

Though a red, scaly rash is the most common symptom of psoriasis, there are many types of this chronic skin condition that causes different symptoms. 

The types of psoriasis include:

Plaque psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type; it causes red, itchy, scaly patches of skin. The skin rash may occur anywhere on your body but typically affects the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp.

Guttate psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis is more common in children and young adults and develops after a bacterial infection. With guttate psoriasis, you have small, circle-shaped rashes on the trunk and legs of your body.

Inverse psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis affects the skin folds, including the groin, under the arms, or under the breasts. With this type of psoriasis, you have a smooth red, painful rash. 

Pustular psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis is an uncommon type that causes pus-filled lesions on the hands or feet or all over the body. 

Erythrodermic psoriasis

With erythrodermic psoriasis, you have a red, peeling rash that affects your entire body. It is the least common type of psoriasis. 

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of psoriasis that causes joint pain and inflammation.  

What happens during a psoriasis evaluation?

You can expect a thorough clinical exam when you come in for a psoriasis evaluation at the Dermatology Center. During the exam, your dermatologist reviews your medical and family history, as well as your symptoms.

Though your experienced dermatologist may diagnose psoriasis after a history and physical, they may take a biopsy of your skin rash to confirm a diagnosis and determine the type. 

How is psoriasis treated?

Psoriasis treatment focuses on slowing the growth of your skin cells to prevent flare-ups, as well as treatments to alleviate rash symptoms. 

The Dermatology Center creates individual plans based on psoriasis type, the severity of symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences. Treatment may include:

• Topical or oral corticosteroids
• Vitamin D analogues
• Retinoids
• Salicylic acid
• Light therapy
• Methotrexate
• Cyclosporine
• Biologics
  
  

Finding the right treatment to manage your psoriasis may take time, and you may need to adjust your plan over time.

For comprehensive care of psoriasis from the experts, call the Dermatology Center, or schedule a consultation online today.