Do you find our website to be helpful?
Yes   No
Skip to main content

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that originates underneath the skin. It is related to the immune system and may range from mild to severe. It may be associated with other diseases, such as psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. There are treatments and strategies that may help some people enjoy a healthy lifestyle depending on the type and severity of the condition. There are several forms of psoriasis, including:

Psoriasis is also associated with inflamed joints. Called psoriatic arthritis, it may only affect the joints and not show on the skin. This form is serious and is treated with medications to stop the disease from getting worse. Psoriatic arthritis usually develops in people between 30 to 40 years old.

The symptoms of the different types of psoriasis vary, but most types appear as pink or red, scaly bumps that join together to form raised plaques of skin. While it can appear almost anywhere, it is usually seen in places that rub. It may have dry, white flakes that are pulled off when the plaque is scratched. A tiny drop of blood may appear, and this is a classic symptom called the Auspitz sign.

Toenails and fingernails may get small pits, turn yellowish-brown and separate from the nail bed. It should not be confused with a fungal infection. Guttate psoriasis may appear after you have a sore throat as small bumps or as itching, scaling skin over a large area.

Psoriasis that appears in moist areas such as the buttocks or navel often has flat, red plaques with little scaling. It may be confused with a fungal infection. Pustular psoriasis may appear as small, pus-filled bumps on the torso and the person may also have a fever. When the condition develops on the scalp, it may look like a bad case of dandruff.

Fortunately, there are treatments that can reduce the symptoms of the condition, even in severe cases. There are topical treatments that are applied directly to the plaques as well as oral medications. Light/laser therapy and biological medications may also be used. When you meet with our specialist at the Center for Dermatology in Lawrenceville, you may learn about the best treatment for your psoriasis. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Telehealth: The Advantages of Telemedicine

Struggles to get to the clinic? Trying to reduce your exposure to COVID-19, as well as other contagious illnesses, and still need to see your doctor? Telehealth is safe and easy — receive quality care from anywhere.

How Do I Prepare for Mole Removal?

Moles, also known as nevi, can be removed for a variety of reasons and with a variety of different methods. The three most common methods for removing moles include a minimally invasive medical procedure,...

How Long After Tattoo Removal Do You See Results?

Some 10 million Americans have at least one tattoo on their body, and many have more than one. However, a decision that may have once been a mark of pride or individuality can one day become a cause of regret...

Skin Tag Removal FAQs: Will My Skin Tag Grow Back?

Skin tags are benign, flesh-colored skin growths that seen most often on the eyelids, neck, chest, back, underarms, or other areas with body folds. Skin tags usually bulge from the skin’s surface by a narrow looking stalk. They are unsightly and can cause

How Does Botox Work?

Wrinkles and fine lines are part of the aging process, but they don’t have to distract your eye each time you look in the mirror...

When to Consider Skin Tag Removal

Skin tags are small benign tumors that develop on the skin. They are most common on people who are middle-aged or older, and they are equally likely to affect men and women...