WHAT IS PSORIASIS?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease marked by red or silvery scaly patches of skin that itch, burn or are sore. These patches usually present on the elbows, knees, scalp, face, back, palms, fingernails and soles of the feet. Psoriasis is more common in adults and has several types:
- Plaque psoriasis: Itchy or painful raised red skin lesions covered with silvery scales
- Guttate psoriasis: Droplet-shaped lesions covered with fine scales on torso, limbs and scalp (more common in children and young adults)
- Inverse psoriasis: Smooth red, swollen patches in the armpits and groin, under the breasts and around the genitals
- Pustular psoriasis: Pustules appearing on hands, fingertips or feet
- Erythrodermic psoriasis: Itchy or burning red, peeling rash covering almost the whole body