Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells. This rapid turnover causes cells to build up quickly on the surface of the skin, leading to thick, scaly patches, amongst other symptoms. The appearance of psoriasis varies significantly depending on the type a person has and where it manifests on the body. Understanding “What Does Psoriasis Look Like” is crucial for early recognition and management. This guide provides a visual overview of the different types of psoriasis to help you understand its diverse presentations.
Types of Psoriasis and Their Appearance
There are several distinct types of psoriasis, each with unique visual characteristics. Recognizing these differences is the first step in understanding this condition.
Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. It is characterized by raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells, called scale or plaques. These plaques can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. They can be itchy and sometimes painful.
Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis affects the scalp and can range from mild, fine scaling to thick, crusted plaques covering the entire scalp. Scalp psoriasis can extend beyond the hairline onto the forehead, the back of the neck, and around the ears. While it can cause itching, scratching can worsen the condition and potentially lead to temporary hair loss in areas with very thick plaques.
Nail Psoriasis
Nail psoriasis can occur in conjunction with any type of psoriasis. It affects fingernails and toenails, causing a variety of changes. Common signs of nail psoriasis include pitting (small depressions in the nail), discoloration (yellowish-brown spots), thickening or crumbling of the nail, and onycholysis (separation of the nail from the nail bed).
Guttate Psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis often appears suddenly, frequently in children and young adults, following a bacterial infection like strep throat. It is characterized by numerous small, drop-shaped, scaly spots (guttate means “drop-like”) on the trunk, limbs, and scalp. These spots are typically not as thick as plaque psoriasis and may clear up on their own within weeks or months, or may develop into chronic plaque psoriasis.
Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis develops in skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and between buttocks. Unlike other forms of psoriasis, inverse psoriasis typically presents as smooth, shiny, red patches without the typical scales. The affected skin can be very sore and is often exacerbated by sweat and friction in these areas.
Pustular Psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis is characterized by the appearance of pus-filled blisters (pustules). Localized pustular psoriasis, such as palmoplantar pustulosis, occurs on the hands and feet, causing painful pustules and thick scaling that can crack.
Generalized Pustular Psoriasis
Generalized pustular psoriasis is a rare and severe form of psoriasis requiring immediate medical attention. It is characterized by widespread eruptions of pus-filled blisters over large areas of the body. It can be accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, chills, severe itching, and fatigue.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Erythrodermic psoriasis is another severe and rare form that can be life-threatening and requires emergency medical care. It involves widespread redness and shedding of the skin over most of the body surface, resembling severe burns. The skin may be painful and itchy, and patients can experience fluctuations in body temperature and fluid loss.
Understanding “what does psoriasis look like” across its various forms is crucial for recognizing potential symptoms. If you suspect you have psoriasis, it is essential to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Early diagnosis and management can significantly improve your quality of life and help control the condition.
Image Credits:
All photos used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides, except for the following:
- Inverse psoriasis (left): Photograph used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol 2004;51:731-8.
- Generalized pustular psoriasis: Photograph used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol 2013;68:e187-9.
- Erythrodermic psoriasis: Photograph used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol 2008;58:826-50.
References:
Menter, A, Gottlieb A, et al. “Guidelines of care for the management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis Section 1. Overview of psoriasis and guidelines of care for the treatment of psoriasis with biologics.” J Am Acad Dermatol 2008;58:826-50.
