types of psoriasis
There are a number of different types of psoriasis and these are some of the more common ones:
Plaque psoriasis
 Image reproduced with the kind permission of Beat Psoriasis |
This is the most common variety of psoriasis, and appears as thick red patches with silvery scales on top. It can be very itchy and irritating, and is most common on areas including the trunk, scalp, knees, elbows and genitalia. |
This usually affects children and may be triggered by a throat infection. It causes the appearance of small red spots over the trunk and limbs which last for a few weeks and then fade. Some children who have an episode of guttate psoriasis will go on to develop chronic plaque psoriasis in later years.
Nail psoriasis
Characterised by pits or dimples appearing in the nail (fingernails or toenails). The nails may discolour and become thickened, and may crumble easily or become detached from the nail bed.
Scalp psoriasis
 Image of a person suffering from scalp psoriasis |
Almost half the people that develop psoriasis suffer from this variety. It causes scaly red plaques on the scalp. The scale gets trapped by the hair and can become very thick and uncomfortable. Having scalp psoriasis will not affect hair growth. |
Pustular psoriasis
This is a rare form of psoriasis which is generally seen on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It is characterised by the appearance of little white pustules on the skin. Despite their appearance, the pustules are sterile and are not the result of bacterial infection.
Psoriatic arthritis
About 10-20% of people with psoriasis may develop an associated arthritis. This causes pain and swelling in the joints, accompanied by stiffness, particularly in the mornings. Most commonly affected areas are the hands, feet, lower back, neck and knees.
For information about the causes of psoriasis follow this link
Information written by the talkhealth medical panel
Click here to tell a friend about talkpsoriasis
Last Reviewed: 10 May 2011
Next Review Date: 9 December 2012
