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Treatment Options for Different Types of Psoriasis

By July 31, 2020May 2nd, 2023Skin Care

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that typically causes itchy, red patches to form on the skin. However, not all cases of psoriasis are the same, and different types may not respond to the same treatments. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, you will need a diagnosis from a dermatologist to identify which form of psoriasis you have and determine the best course of treatment.

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis, the most common form of this condition, results in large, raised patches of skin that turn red or gray. Often, the plaques appear on the scalp, back, knees, and elbows. Moisturizers and cortisone creams can offer some relief for the symptoms of mild cases of plaque psoriasis. Identifying and eliminating triggers, such as stress, can also be effective. If your rashes persist despite these measures, we may recommend light therapy, prescription ointments, retinoids, or anti-inflammatory medications. Systemic and biologic medications that address the source of the rash can also help relieve symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.

Guttate Psoriasis

Most frequently affecting children and young adults, guttate psoriasis causes small, droplet-shaped red spots. This rash usually affects the trunk and extremities, though spots sometimes appear on the scalp or face. Typically, this type of psoriasis arises after an infection. Detecting and resolving the underlying bacterial infection often eliminates the rashes.

Inverse Psoriasis

This type of psoriasis presents with smooth, flat scales rather than the thick, raised scales associated with plaque psoriasis. Inverse psoriasis often affects areas with frequent skin-on-skin contact, such as the groin and the undersides of the breasts. It typically responds to the same treatments used for plaque psoriasis, but inverse psoriasis is often mistaken for a fungal or bacterial infection.

Pustular Psoriasis

With this type of psoriasis, a rash comprised of white pustules surrounded by red skin arises quickly. This skin irritation is sometimes accompanied by flu-like symptoms. In addition to the standard treatments for plaque psoriasis, resolving the underlying infection will often alleviate the rash.

If these symptoms sound familiar, visit the team at The Dermatology Clinic. We have decades of experience treating psoriasis and other skin conditions. With two locations in the Baton Rouge area, our dermatologists can provide you with a thorough examination and a targeted treatment plan to help achieve clearer, smoother skin. Call (225) 769-7546 or request your appointment online today.