Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes skin cells to multiply too quickly. As a result, the skin becomes flaky, itchy, and inflamed as this sped-up growth cycle interferes with the typical skin turnover process. If you need help with psoriasis, turn to Kunal Angra, MD, Divya Angra, MD, and their team of experts at Sapphire Dermatology for outstanding care. Call either office in Silver Spring, Maryland, or Reston, Virginia, to schedule a consultation or request one online at your earliest convenience.

How is psoriasis diagnosed?

Since psoriasis can look similar to other skin disorders, such as eczema, getting a dermatologist at Sapphire Dermatology to accurately diagnose your symptoms is crucial. The team might also recommend skin biopsies to rule out the possibility of infection or other skin conditions.

A physical exam is the first step in diagnosing your psoriasis, especially if you have scaly plaques of inflamed skin. A complete evaluation of your family history and overall health will also be discussed during your appointment.

Is psoriasis contagious?

Psoriasis is not a contagious condition. It does not spread from person-to-person contact. Instead, the condition occurs as a result of the overactivation of your immune system, resulting in the body attacking normal tissue.

Common symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Itchy patches of thick skin
• Scaly, silvery, and flaky skin
• Psoriasis patches

Patches typically present themselves on the feet, palms, knees, elbows, neck, face, and scalp. However, psoriasis plaques can grow anywhere on the body.

Are there different types of psoriasis?

There are several different types of psoriasis:

Plaque psoriasis

The most commonly occurring type results in red, inflamed skin with white scales.

Inverse psoriasis

This type of psoriasis appears under the breasts, armpits, groin, and genital skin folds. It’s characterized by red patches of skin that are flaky or smooth but without scales.

Psoriatic arthritis

People with psoriatic arthritis have psoriasis along with arthritis or inflammation of the joints. Your chances of getting psoriatic arthritis increase when you have psoriasis.

Guttate psoriasis

This type occurs in children or young adults and is very rare. Less than 2% of all cases of psoriasis are diagnosed as guttate psoriasis.

Pustular psoriasis

An uncommon type of psoriasis results in pustules surrounded by red, inflamed skin. Fever, chills, and nausea often accompany pustular psoriasis. It requires immediate medical attention.

Erythrodermic psoriasis

A serious but uncommon type of psoriasis that affects a large part of the body, resulting in fiery skin that burns and severe itching. Immediate medical attention is required as this severe type of psoriasis results in fluid loss and changes your body temperature and heart rate.

Nail psoriasis

This type commonly occurs in people who have psoriatic arthritis and results in tender nails that are yellow-brown in color with a chalk-like material under the nail beds.

To learn more about psoriasis and the treatment options available, call Sapphire Dermatology to schedule a consultation at either office or request an appointment online, which is fast and easy.