Psoriasis

Types

Plaque psoriasis is the most common kind of psoriasis, found in nine out of 10 cases. The areas affected are circular to oval shaped; they are red and covered with silvery scales. Patches are usually found on the elbows, knees, trunk or scalp but may be found anywhere on the skin. This type of psoriasis tends to be chronic.

Guttate psoriasis is the second most common form of psoriasis, found in 2 percent of psoriasis patients. It may be triggered by a case of strep throat or bacterial infection. It is marked by small, salmon-pink or red drops on the trunk, arms or legs but may occur anywhere on the body. It usually clears up with treatment.

Pustular psoriasis is an uncommon form of psoriasis. Patients with pustular psoriasis have clearly defined, raised bumps on the skin that are filled with pus.

Nail psoriasis is usually found in people who also have skin psoriasis. It involves changes to the toenails or fingernails; for instance, discoloring that looks like a drop of blood under the nail plate or little indentations in the nails.

Scalp psoriasis is a condition in which the scalp has fine, very dry and scaly skin or heavily crusted plaque areas. The plaque can flake off or peel in crusted clumps.

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition in which a patient has psoriasis and arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis affects 5 to 8 percent of people with psoriasis.

Inverse psoriasis is found in the folds of the skin. The patches are bright red and smooth, not scaly.

Erythrodermic psoriasis is the least common type of psoriasis. It affects a large area, if not most of the body, with a rash that itches or burns. It is a serious condition in which increased blood flow can strain the heart.