psoriasis 11

Psoriasis Description

Psoriasis is a long-lasting, noncontagious autoimmune disease characterized by patches of abnormal skin [11]. These areas are red, pink, or purple, dry, itchy, and scaly [8][3]. Psoriasis varies in severity from small localized patches to complete body coverage [3]. Injury to the skin can trigger psoriatic skin changes at that spot, which is known as the Koebner phenomenon.

Key Characteristics:

• Red, pink, or purple patches of skin
• Dry and scaly texture
• Itchy sensation
• Can vary in severity from localized to complete body coverage

Note: Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, but it most often appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, and other areas with high concentrations of skin cells.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis, also known as psoriasis vulgaris, is the most common type of psoriasis. It causes raised, discolored (red, brown, gray or purple) plaques with a white or silvery surface on the skin. These patches can be accompanied by cracks (fissures), bleeding, and other symptoms.

Key Symptoms:

• Raised, discolored plaques with a white or silvery surface
• Cracks (fissures)
• Bleeding
• Itching and soreness in the affected areas

What to Expect:

When you visit your healthcare provider for an examination, they will look for these common signs of plaque psoriasis. They may also ask about your symptoms, family history, and other relevant information to confirm a diagnosis.

References: [11]

Diagnosing Psoriasis: A Comprehensive Overview

Psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder that speeds up skin cell growth, can be challenging to diagnose. However, with a combination of physical examination and diagnostic tests, dermatologists can accurately identify the condition.

• Physical Examination: The first step in diagnosing psoriasis is a thorough physical examination by a dermatologist. They will examine your skin, scalp, and nails for signs of the condition, such as red, scaly patches, nail changes, or joint pain (in the case of psoriatic arthritis) [2][6].
• Biopsy: A biopsy may be performed to confirm a diagnosis of psoriasis. During this test, a small sample of skin tissue is removed from the affected area and examined under a microscope [3][8]. This helps determine the type of psoriasis you have.
• Blood Tests: While there are no blood tests that can specifically diagnose psoriasis, your doctor may run blood tests to rule out other conditions or to assess the severity of your symptoms. These tests may include complete blood cell (CBC) count, blood urea nitrogen (BUN)/creatinine, liver function tests (LFTs), and others [5].
• Imaging Tests: If you have symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, such as swollen and painful joints, your doctor may order imaging tests like X-rays to rule out other conditions [4].

Key Takeaways

• A physical examination by a dermatologist is the first step in diagnosing psoriasis.
• A biopsy may be performed to confirm a diagnosis of psoriasis.
• Blood tests can help rule out other conditions or assess the severity of symptoms.
• Imaging tests like X-rays may be ordered if you have symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.

References

[1] Not provided (no relevant information found) [2] Context #2 [3] Context #3 [4] Context #4 [5] Context #5 [6] Context #6 [7] Context #7 [8] Context #8

Topical Steroids for Psoriasis

Topical steroids are a common treatment option for mild to moderate psoriasis. They can help ease itching and inflammation, making them an effective choice for managing symptoms.

• Low-dose options: Hydrocortisone 1% (like Cortizone-10) is a low-dose, over-the-counter (OTC) topical steroid that's great for mild psoriasis.
• Efficacy: Topical steroids can reduce plaque formation and ease itching and inflammation.

According to the data [11], topical steroids are used by: * 35% of males * 21% of females * 28% of all patients

Overall, topical steroids are a popular treatment option for psoriasis due to their effectiveness in reducing symptoms.

Differential Diagnosis of Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, can be challenging to diagnose due to its various clinical manifestations. When considering the differential diagnosis of psoriasis, several conditions must be ruled out.

• Palmoplantar psoriasis: A variant of psoriasis that affects the skin of the palms and soles, characterized by hyperkeratotic, pustular, or mixed morphologies.
• Dyshidrotic eczema: A type of eczema that causes small, itchy blisters on the hands and feet.
• Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction to substances that come into contact with the skin, causing redness, itching, and blistering.
• Pityriasis rubra pilaris: A rare skin condition characterized by reddish-orange patches and scaly bumps.
• Acquired palmoplantar keratoderma: A thickening of the skin on the palms and soles, often caused by repeated friction or pressure.

These conditions can mimic the symptoms of psoriasis, making differential diagnosis crucial for accurate treatment. Dermoscopy, a non-invasive diagnostic tool, has been shown to enhance clinical diagnosis in cases of psoriasis [12][17].

References:

• [11] Palmoplantar psoriasis is a variant of psoriasis that characteristically affects the skin of the palms and soles.
• [12][13] Differential diagnosis of IP includes any erythematous rash involving the body folds, generically defined as “intertrigo”.
• [17] Dermoscopy has demonstrated to enhance the clinical diagnosis of psoriasis.