Types of Psoriasis

There are five distinct types of Psoriasis:

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is characterized by red, raised skin ("plaques") with silvery or powdery, flaking scales. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. Up to 80% of people affected by psoriasis have this form of the disease. The most common places for plaque psoriasis to appear are the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp, but it can appear anywhere on the body.

Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis appears as small, red lesions. Guttate psoriasis is the second most common form of the disease with roughly 10% of psoriasis sufferers affected. This type of psoriasis may be associated with an upper respiratory infection.

Pustular Psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis appears as very red, swollen skin with pus-filled lesions. Pustular psoriasis can be localized or generalized. Generalized pustular psoriasis is a serious condition because it may involve the whole body and can be very painful. Localized pustular psoriasis typically involves the soles or the palms.

Inverse Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis affects the folds of the skin. Red plaques may appear in the armpits, genital creases, under the breasts and in other body folds.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

Erythrodermic psoriasis is characterized by painful red skin covering the entire body. Erythrodermic psoriasis can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

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