Different Types of Psoriasis – What One Affects You?

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It’s hard to say which type of psoriasis is the worst. They are all equally hard to live with. However, some complications can be harder to treat than others. Here’s an overview of the different forms psoriasis can take.

Guttate psoriasis often afflicts children and young adults. Pictures of psoriasis on arms show us small tear shaped bumps that are reddish in color with white scales. This disease often starts on the torso, but can spread over the entire body. It cannot be cured, but can be controlled with several forms of treatment.

Plaque psoriasis is the most common. About 80% of psoriasis cases are plaque in nature. This form of psoriasis consists of a red, raised area of skin covered by a white plaque that may flake and peel. In fact, scalp psoriasis often gets confused with dandruff. In severe cases, the plaques can become infected, leading to a condition called Erythrodermic psoriasis. This can be fatal if not treated promptly, as the plaques can interfere with the skin’s natural defenses from infection.

Pustular Psoriasis looks like small boils with pus in them. This is a very painful condition. The boils can burst and become infected, so it needs to be treated with care. It often is found in conjunction with other forms of psoriasis.

Flexural psoriasis forms in the folds of the body, like the armpits and groin. This type of psoriasis is prone to fungal infections and chafing. It can easily become infected if not looked after carefully. This too is often found with other forms of psoriasis.

Finally, psoriatic arthritis can form when the connective tissue in the joints becomes inflamed. This causes the joints to separate, making movement very painful. Sometimes this is accompanied by other forms of skin psoriasis, but sometimes there are no other symptoms.