Plaque psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes thick patches, or plaques, on the skin, including the elbows, back, knees, and scalp. In severe cases, plaque psoriasis can affect the entire body, including:
- The face
- The feet
- The genitals
- The hands
- The legs
Plaque psoriasis can affect anyone. However, a person may be more likely to have it if they:
- Are white
- Drink alcohol
- Experience stress or depression
- Have a relative with psoriasis
- Have obesity
- Smoke or use tobacco products
Symptoms of plaque psoriasis include:
- Raised, discolored (red, brown, gray, or purple) plaques with a white or silvery surface
- Cracks (fissures)
- Bleeding
- Itchiness
- Irritation or pain
Plaque psoriasis is a problem with the immune system. The immune system overreacts, causing inflammation, which leads to new skin cells growing too fast.
New skin cells typically grow every 28 to 30 days. However, if a person has plaque psoriasis, new cells grow and move to the skin’s surface every three to four days.
Plaque psoriasis flare-ups can differ from person to person. No one knows what exactly causes them, but common plaque psoriasis triggers can include:
- Certain foods or drinks
- Certain prescription medications
- Dry skin
- Emotional stress
- Skin injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, or surgery
- Sun damage
A healthcare provider will diagnose plaque psoriasis by examining the affected areas and looking for common signs. They will also ask about symptoms, family history, and if you have recently started or stopped using a product or medication just before a flare-up.
They may also perform several tests to rule out other conditions that could cause your plaques, such as eczema or dermatitis. This series of tests is a differential diagnosis. Tests may include:
- Allergy test
- Biopsy
- Blood tests to check for causes of a rash unrelated to plaque psoriasis
Unfortunately, there is no cure for plaque psoriasis. Treatment is used to provide relief for symptoms. An anti-inflammatory diet may help to limit plaque psoriasis flare-ups. Foods that have anti-inflammatory properties include:
- Oily fish, such as mackerel, salmon, or sardines
- Leafy greens, such as spinach and kale
- Olive oil
If you are experiencing symptoms of plaque psoriasis, you can visit Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.