Psoriasis

Psoriasis - Symptoms

Psoriasis presents as single, few or many,well-demarcated, pink-to-red patches covered by gray or silvery-white scales. Lesions in moist areas (eg. groin) may not have scales. Scratching or removal of scales may lead to fine bleeding points.

Commonly involved sites include scalp, hairline, elbows, knees, umbilicus, lower back and genital regions.

Skin trauma can induce psoriasis lesions to form, in a patient with underlying psoriasis (Koebner phenomenon).

Nail involvement is common. Pitting, discoloration, onycholysis (separation of nail from nail bed) and thickening of several nails may be seen. This may be mistaken for fungal infection.

Joint involvement (psoriatic arthritis) can occur in some psoriasis patients. However, it is uncommon in childhood psoriasis.

The risk of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and hyperlipidaemia has recently been shown to be increased in patients with psoriasis, especially in adults.