It is estimated that nearly seven and a half million Americans suffer from psoriasis.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis affects the growth of skin cells. It is considered an autoimmune disease because “the immune system sends out faulty signals that speed up the growth of skin cells” (National Psoriasis Foundation.)
There are five main types of psoriasis:
- Erythrodermic
- Guttate
- Inverse
- Plaque
- Pustular
Symptoms of Psoriasis
Each type of psoriasis has it’s own unique set of symptoms, which often leads to misdiagnosis.
Erythrodermic (pronounced eh-reeth-ro-der-mik) psoriasis can occur alongside von Zumbusch psoriasis. Usually the inflammation is only temporary, but cycles and can disappear and reappear at any time. While von Zumbusch pustular psoriasis is more severe, erythrodermic psoriasis usually does not occur with a fever, chills, or other symptoms often associated with von Zumbusch pustular psoriasis.
Guttate psoriasis (pronounced guh-tate,) usually affects children and teens. Guttate psoriasis appears on the body as individual red spots, rather than large rashes that appear in forms such as plaque psoriasis. This form of psoriasis is usually seen on the scalp, knees or elbows.
Inverse psoriasis is caused by irritation from sweating or rubbing in areas such as the groin, underneath breasts, between the buttocks or surrounding the genitals. Inverse psoriasis is bright red, but shiny in appearance rather than flakey. Generally individuals who suffer from obesity can also suffer from forms of inverse psoriasis.
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form which affecting approximately 80 percent of Americans diagnosed with the condition. Red patches that are inflamed, in addition to white or silver scales that are caused by dead skin cells. This form os psoriasis is usually found on the torso, the arms or the legs.
Pustular psoriasis is one of the more rare forms of psoriasis. There are three forms of pustular psoriasis: acropustulosis (acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau,) palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP,) and von Zumbusch pustular psoriasis. Depending on the form, pustular psoriasis can affect any part of the body and can be treated by common things such as pregnancy, steroids or UV light.
Does a Cure Exist for Psoriasis?
Currently, a cure does not exist for psoriasis.
Are there Treatments Available for Psoriasis?
Treating psoriasis is often a trial and error method. There are a wide variety of topical creams that can help reduce or temporary eliminate the effects of psoriasis. However, many cases of psoriasis come in cycles and can disappear and reappear at whim. Fortunately, most cases can be treated with a proper medicated cream regiment through the help of a doctor.
Additional Information on Psoriasis:
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