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Diagnosing psoriasis |
A doctor usually diagnoses psoriasis from the symptoms someone describes and a physical examination. In some cases, if the doctor is unsure, a small skin sample may be taken to be tested in a laboratory (biopsy) to help confirm the diagnosis. X-rays may be taken of joints affected by arthritis. |
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What is the
outlook of psoriasis? |
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Psoriasis is a long term condition but in most people it is usually mild. The range of treatments available are usually effective at relieving the symptoms when they occur.
People with psoriasis should look out for possible complications such as infections (shown by skin becoming more painful, swollen, red or tender than usual) or arthritis and, if worried, see a doctor, because much can be done to treat them.
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 Who gets psoriasis?
Psoriasis is quite common, affecting around two per cent of the population, although people with very mild symptoms may not be aware they have it. Psoriasis can begin at any age but usually starts either around the age of 20 or between 50 and 60.
The exact cause of psoriasis is not known, but it tends to run in families. If both of their parents are affected, a person has a 60% chance of developing the condition.
Environmental triggers are important too, stimulating the condition in susceptible people. Triggers include throat infections, skin trauma such as cuts, bruises or burns, some medicines, stress or psychological trauma, smoking and high alcohol intake.
And although psoriasis is much more likely in people with a family history of the condition, other people may still get it.
The Main
Types of Psoriasis
- Plaque psoriasis: scaly patches (plaques) on the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp. The plaques may be as small as 1cm in diameter, or more than 10cm. This is the most common form of psoriasis.
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Guttate psoriasis - lots of small, drop-shaped scaly patches, usually less than 1cm in diameter, mostly on the trunk, but also elsewhere. This type of psoriasis may start suddenly, after a throat infection.
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Inverse psoriasis - red, shiny patches in skin folds in the armpits and groin, and under the breasts for women. These usually have no scaling.
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Pustular psoriasis - scaly patches containing pus appear on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. Sometimes, and more seriously, they cover other parts of the body too.
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Erythroderma - inflammation of all of the skin, which becomes hot, red and dry - this is a very rare but serious condition.
Psoriasis can also occur on the scalp, where it is likely to cause redness and flaking, or smooth patches may appear on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Fingernails can also be affected, by pitting, rather like on a thimble,
discoloration or breaking.
Some people with psoriasis also have associated arthritis (inflamed joints), which can range from being very mild to severe. Typically the joints of the fingers and toes are affected, although the back, knees and hips may be too.
Published by BUPA's Health Information Team
August 2003 |