Kinds of Psoriasis
The severity, location, and appearance of psoriasis depends on which kind you have. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form, affecting four out of five people with psoriasis. Other kinds of psoriasis are much less common, including guttate, pustular, inverse, and a very inflammatory but rare form known as erythrodermic psoriasis.
Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis causes raised red patches, which typically shed flakes or scales of dead skin. People with plaque psoriasis may have dry or cracked skin that can be painful.
Guttate Psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis most commonly appears as many small red drops on the skin and often will clear up after a few weeks or months. This kind of psoriasis tends to affect the limbs, trunk, or scalp, and may be triggered by a bacterial infection during childhood or early adulthood. Affected areas may lack the scales that characterize plaque psoriasis and are not as thick.
Pustular Psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis is relatively rare. One form, known as localized pustular psoriasis or palmar-plantar, causes blisters filled with fluid to cover small areas such as the hands and feet. Another form of pustular psoriasis, known as generalized or von Zumbusch, can be life threatening and covers very large areas with tender red skin and blisters.
Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis affects places where the skin folds and is more common in people who are overweight. Friction and sweat can inflame the skin around joints, especially in the armpits and groin.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Erythrodermic psoriasis is very rare and painful. It causes a widespread, burned, fiery appearance to the skin. It’s a serious condition and needs medical treatment immediately.