About this condition
Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition with periods of worsening and improvement. It is not contagious through touch, shared objects or everyday contact.
What to know
Well-defined raised plaques with scales can appear on elbows, knees, scalp or elsewhere. Other patterns affect skin folds or the nails, sometimes leaving pitting, crumbling or separation of the nail plate. Severity varies between individuals.
Symptoms and reasons for assessment
Scaling, redness, itching and cracking can affect comfort and sleep. A small but sensitive area can have a disproportionate impact. Joint pain, swelling or morning stiffness should be mentioned because inflammatory joint disease can coexist.
Other possible causes
Eczema, fungal skin disease and other rashes may resemble psoriasis. Nail changes are not automatically nail fungus, and a scaly patch alone cannot establish a diagnosis. A dermatologist considers distribution, course and other findings.
How clinicians assess the problem
A dermatologist often identifies psoriasis from the skin and nail examination plus the history. When findings are atypical, other investigations may be considered. Assessment also considers affected body area, quality of life, previous treatments and possible joint symptoms.
Treatment and follow-up options
The goal is to control inflammation and symptoms while considering location, extent and coexisting illnesses. Treatment may involve clinician-selected topical or other approaches. It is incorrect to promise a permanent cure; follow-up can help adjust a plan during flares.
When urgent care is necessary
Very widespread redness, fever, marked general illness, rapidly worsening painful skin or significant new joint swelling warrants prompt evaluation. For serious emergencies call 103. A routine stable plaque is not itself an emergency.
Related health information
Fungal skin infections; Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection); Dermatitis.
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis and tests
Care and treatment approaches
When to seek urgent care
Frequently asked questions
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition and is not transmitted by ordinary contact.
Can psoriasis affect the nails?
Yes. Pitting, crumbling or separation can occur, although other conditions can produce similar changes.
Why does a dermatologist ask about joint pain?
Some people develop inflammatory joint problems; pain, swelling or morning stiffness should be assessed.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
