There are 5 types of psoriasis. Each type of psoriasis has its own unique symptoms. These unique symptoms will help the doctor determine which type of psoriasis is present. Different types may be present at the same time.
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The following is a brief outline of each type of psoriasis and a description of the accompanying signs and symptoms.
Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form. It is named for the “plaques,” or lesions, that are characteristic of this type of psoriasis. Plaques tend to be stable and slow growing, and they may remain unchanged for long periods of time.
Signs and symptoms include:
Nail findings may include:
Guttate Psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis may appear after bacterial infections, such as streptococcus ( strep throat) or viral infections.
Signs and symptoms include small, salmon pink, drop-like lesions, usually on the trunk and limbs. May also be on scalp, face, and ears.
Inverse Psoriasis
Most commonly found in skin fold areas of the body, such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and genital areas. This type of psoriasis is also known as flexural psoriasis.
Signs and symptoms include:
Erythrodermic Psoriasis
This is the least common form of the disease. It can be triggered by severe sunburn, use of certain drugs, or abrupt withdrawal of oral steroids.
Signs and symptoms include:
Erythrodermic psoriasis is an emergency and should be evaluated immediately
Pustular Psoriasis
This form of psoriasis may be triggered by medication, emotional stress, infections, abrupt withdrawal of systemic steroids, or exposure to certain chemicals. It is a more rare form of psoriasis.
Signs and symptoms include:
Psoriasis. American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scaly-skin/psoriasis. Accessed December 22, 2017.
Psoriasis. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T116742/Psoriasis . Updated December 4, 2017. Accessed December 22, 2017.
Psoriasis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin diseases. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis. Updated March 3, 2017. Accessed December 22, 2017.
Psoriatic disease. National Psoriasis Foundation website. Available at:
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Accessed December 22, 2017.
Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael Woods MD, FAAP
Last Updated: 12/20/2014