"Plaque skin" is a term commonly used to describe the characteristic lesions associated with plaque psoriasis. This type of psoriasis is the most common form, causing thick, scaly patches called plaques to appear on the skin. These plaques are typically red, pink, or purple, and can be itchy or painful. They can develop anywhere on the body, but commonly appear on the elbows, knees, trunk, and scalp.
Plaque psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to grow too quickly. This rapid growth leads to the buildup of dead skin cells that form the characteristic plaques.
While there is no cure for plaque psoriasis, there are various treatments available to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected. These include topical creams, oral medications, light therapy, and even biologic drugs.
