Understanding Psoriasis and Its Variants

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by red, flaky patches covered with silvery scales. It commonly appears on the scalp, elbows, and knees but can also affect nails, trunk, and legs. While not contagious, psoriasis is hereditary and has no definitive prevention. It originates beneath the skin surface, with severity ranging from mild to intense. The condition is linked to other health issues like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and psoriatic arthritis, which affects about 15% of psoriasis sufferers. Though incurable, treatments help manage symptoms effectively.

Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis manifests in various forms based on causes, affected areas, and severity. Key types include:

Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form, presenting as red patches with silvery scales, often itchy or painful, appearing anywhere on the skin, including oral and genital areas.

Inverse or Flexural Psoriasis: Appears in body folds like the groin and armpits, often shiny and smooth, sometimes co-occurring with other psoriasis types.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A rare but severe type covering the entire body with red, peeling, itchy, and painful skin, requiring urgent medical attention.

Pustular Psoriasis: Rapid-onset, affecting small or large areas, characterized by white pustules on red skin, sometimes accompanied by fever, chills, and muscle weakness. Types include acropustulosis, palmoplantar pustulosis, and von Zumbusch.

Guttate Psoriasis: Often triggered by streptococcal infections, appearing as small dot-like lesions, common in both children and adults.

Nail Psoriasis: Affects fingernails and toenails, causing discoloration, pitting, and abnormal growth, which may detach or break off.