Different Forms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that is quite common and afflicts millions of people. The condition is relatively benign and easily treated, however, it is generally misunderstood. Like most skin conditions, psoriasis has different variants and strains that people are not familiar with. Because of this, people come down with this condition are not even aware they have psoriasis because they do not realize that psoriasis takes on different forms and appearances.

Contrary to popular belief and conventional wisdom, this condition is not ‘one’ condition, but exists in several different forms. There are five common forms of psoriasis: Plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic. While there are similarities between these variants, there are common denominators that link them all into the condition tree.

Plaque is the most common form of this condition and is identified by raised, red blotches on the skin. These raised blotches are generally associated with the scalp, but can be present on the elbows, back, knees, etc.

Guttate is identical to plaque, but the condition is takes on the appearance of smaller, red dots as opposed to the large mass area covered by plaque.

An inverse form of this condition is indicative of the condition being present in the ‘folds’ of the body such as armpits, breasts or buttocks.

Pustular is exactly what the name would imply: psoriasis that is accompanied by white pus balls similar to pimples.