One thing many people don’t know about psoriasis is that there is more than one type. To help clarify the differences, let’s take a look at the most common form, plaque psoriasis. This type is one most of the public is most familiar with. It most frequently appears on the knees, elbows, and the trunk of the body. It can also be found on the scalp. Unlike dandruff, this type of psoriasis leaves red patches that can actually be seen through the hair.

Visually, plaque psoriasis manifests as inflamed lesions that produce silvery white scales. These lesions leave the affected areas itching and very often painful. Here is some additional information about this common skin condition.

• appearance
• treatment
• people at risk

As previously mentioned, the appearance of this disease shows up as red lesions. In the beginning stages, the patient will notice small red spots on their skin. Over time, the spots often grow into patches of red, raised skin. As the lesions grow, so does the discomfort. They then become covered with scales. The scales are layers of dead skin cells that don’t naturally sloth off.

There are a variety of psoriasis treatments available. The most popular version consists of topical creams and ointments. Many times these creams have ingredients like synthetic steroids and moisturizing ingredients added. In some cases, your health care professional may suggest a topical treatment in addition to light therapy. UVB and other types of light lamps or lasers are used to help clear up plaque psoriasis. Adequate treatment is very important as this type of psoriasis very rarely heals on its own.

Since the specific cause of plaque psoriasis is largely unknown, it’s difficult to pinpoint a target group of people who are prone. However there are a few things medical professionals know about common sufferers. People of dark skin and those that live in tropical climates are less likely to develop psoriasis. More women than men are diagnosed with this painful condition. It make matters more confusing, your gene pool seems to have an impact as well. This skin condition runs in families, though no one is certain why.