Different Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to make new skin cells much faster than is natural. There are several types of psoriasis in Charlotte, NC. The most common type is plaque psoriasis. It is characterized by patches of thick red skin and shiny scales that are typically located on the elbows, knees, and scalp. The most frustrating symptoms are itchiness, irritation and pain.

There is no cure for psoriasis in Charlotte, NC, but the symptoms can be managed with proper treatment. Sufferers may have occasional flare-ups followed by periods of remission. Read on to learn of some of the different types of psoriasis:

Plaque psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. Significantly itchy and painful, it makes up about 80 percent or more of cases. It is characterized by red skin lesions and silvery scales that appear virtually anywhere on the body, including inside the mouth and on the genitals in rare cases.

• Scalp psoriasis
  The main symptom of scalp psoriasis is a dry, itchy scalp. Doctors report that as many as 8 of 10 people with psoriasis will have a flare-up on their scalp. Scratching scalp psoriasis can cause bleeding.

• Nail psoriasis
  Psoriasis strikes the fingernails and toenails causing nails to appear pitted and discolored. In severe cases, the nails can get weak and crumble, eventually separating from the nail bed.

• Psoriatic arthritis
  Roughly 30 percent of people with plaque psoriasis go on to develop psoriatic arthritis. This is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Symptoms can affect any joint in the body, including finger joints, and even the spine.

• Guttate psoriasis
  This is psoriasis that is triggered by a bacterial infection. It is more common in children and young adults. It is estimated to affect about 10 percent of people with psoriasis.

• Pustular psoriasis
  Pustular psoriasis is a rare type of psoriasis in which within hours, pus-filled blisters appear. Breakouts may be triggered by infection, or even by some medications. Additional symptoms can include fever, chills, diarrhea, kidney, and liver problems.

The effectiveness of your skincare depends upon several factors. If you live in or near the south Charlotte area and you are finding it difficult to live with psoriasis; Metrolina dermatology provides full-service medical and cosmetic dermatology that involves the treatment and management of psoriasis.

Dr. Sasha Haberle and her staff offer personalized care for the detailed treatment of patients of all ages and skin conditions. Dr. Haberle is recognized as an expert in all areas of dermatology. She is a Board-Certified and a Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon. Call the friendly staff at Metrolina Dermatology today to schedule an appointment. They welcome new patients and will help you develop a dermatologist-recommended plan for the treatment of your psoriasis.