Psoriasis is not contagious but can be inherited. There are five types of psoriasis, each with unique signs and symptoms.

Plaque Psoriasis (also known as Psoriasis Vulgaris) is the most common type, affecting 80% to 90% of people with psoriasis. It can be identified by the red, scaly patches (also known as plaques) that can be found on the scalp, elbows, chest, knees and lower back and may have a silvery appearance. The size may vary from as small as a coin to as large as a salad/dinner plate.

Guttate Psoriasis is less common, affecting approximately 10% of those with psoriasis. It generally appears in childhood or adolescence in the form of drop size patches that can spread to cover large areas of the body. This form often appears after a person has had strep throat.

Pustular Psoriasis is a rare form that can be quite painful. It can appear over the entire body or be localized to the palms of the hands and/or the soles of the feet. The psoratic skin will become red and swollen with small, pus filled pimples that will dry to form brown spots. The swelling and location on the hands and feet can make using your hands and walking extremely uncomfortable and difficult. Causes can include sunburn, infections and some medications such as lithium.

Inverse Psoriasis occurs in the folds of the skin and is often referred to as Skin-Fold or Genital Psoriasis. This type of psoriasis concentrates in the genital area as well as the armpits and under the breasts and is more common in overweight individuals with increased sensitivity to friction and sweating.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis is characterized by severe redness and scaling, often with itching and pain. Also known as Exfoliative Psoriasis it can be very serious as it covers almost the entire body and can cause fluctuations in the body’s temperature, especially in extreme weather (hot or cold). It can also pose risks as the heart rate may increase due to the increased blood flow to the inflamed skin.

A related condition is called Psoriatic Arthritis which affects the joints and can be similar to a mild rheumatoid arthritis. Approximately 25% of those with psoriasis will develop Psoriatic Arthritis. People suffering from this type of psoriasis will have the scaling and plaque and joint inflammation although the symptoms will most likely appear separately and may even be years apart. This can make it difficult to readily determine if it is Psoriatic Arthritis so it’s best to have a specialist evaluate and make the diagnosis.

Learn more about how Dermarest® Psoriasis products can help loosen and remove the embarassing scales to allow healthy skin to grow.