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Signs and symptoms of psoriasis

Signs and symptoms of psoriasis

Like of any other skin disease, a rash is the main symptom of psoriasis. It is important to identify and evaluate any emerged rashes. Moreover, the diagnosis of psoriasis is not enough for successful treatment. It is of crucial importance to define the exact type of the disease.

Based on specific features, plaque psoriasis, inverse psoriasis and scalp psoriasis are distinguished.

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Plaque psoriasis symptoms involve red patches on skin that are covered with silver scales. At first, red patches appear. Later they become covered with dead skin cells that form whitish or silver scale on top. Itch and bleeding may also be present. Affected skin tends to bleed when scratched. Red skin patches tend to be distributed on knees, shins, navel region, forearms and lower back.

Inverse psoriasis presents as shiny and smooth reddish skin lesions on natural skin folds and body surfaces that are often in touch. It attacks popliteal areas, groin, armpits, and skin under breasts. These skin lesions are usually not covered by the scales because of the moist environment, sweating and friction of the adjacent surfaces.

Scalp psoriasis symptoms include ascending and coalescing red skin patches. They can also be scaly. One or several patches might be present. Other scalp psoriasis symptoms and signs include flaking, itching, soreness, burning sensation and, in very acute periods, hair loss. Not all of these symptoms can be seen – in mild cases scalp psoriasis only manifests as red skin patches on scalp. In moderate or severe cases, lesions will become very infiltrated, distributed all over the scalp and severely flaky. Scalp psoriasis symptoms sometimes may mimic seborrheic dermatitis, so it is important to see a dermatologist who would differentiate between these conditions and administer proper treatment.

In order to treat the disease, a correct diagnosis must be made. Although patients can try to identify the disease at home, it is not advisable, since there are many other conditions that present with rashes similar to psoriasis (e.g. eczema, skin fungus etc.). Dermatologist will examine your skin and run some tests. Therefore, you should always consult a doctor in order to avoid any misdiagnosis and harm to your wellbeing. If you have any worries regarding your skin condition, consult a dermatologist. If your doctor has any doubts concerning the diagnosis, he will take a skin sample (skin biopsy) and perform histological examination. After this, the diagnosis will be definite.