The symptoms of psoriasis can manifest in a variety of forms. There are four classical clinical types of psoriasisa. Plaque psoriasis (psoriasis vulgaris) is the most common form of psoriasis. It is characterized by sharply demarcated erythematous scaling plaques (as figured) It most commonly occurs on the elbows and knees, scalp and groin. Nail involvement is common, e.g., yellow discoloration, thickening, and lifting of the nail plate off of the distal nail bed (onycholysis).b. Guttate psoriasis is characterized by numerous small oval (teardrop-shaped) spots. These numerous spots of psoriasis appear over large areas of the body, such as the trunk, limbs, and scalp. It commonly occurs after streptococcal pharyngitis.c. Pustular psoriasis appears as raised bumps that are filled with non-infectious pus (pustules). The skin under and surrounding pustules is red and tender. Pustular psoriasis can be localised, commonly to the hands and feet (palmoplantar pustulosis), or generalised with widespread patches occurring randomly on any part of the body.d. Erythrodermic psoriasis involves the widespread inflammation and exfoliation of the skin over most of the body surface. It may be accompanied by severe itching, swelling and pain. It is often the result of an exacerbation of unstable plaque psoriasis, particularly following the abrupt withdrawal of systemic treatment. This form of psoriasis can be life-threatening, as the extreme inflammation and exfoliation disrupt the body's ability to regulate temperature and for the skin to perform barrier functions.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
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