Psoriatic rash is a skin rash characteristic of psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune disease. It manifests as itchy, scaly patches of skin, most often appearing on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp.
Understanding Psoriatic Rash
Psoriasis accelerates the life cycle of skin cells. This rapid turnover leads to a buildup of dead skin cells on the surface, creating the characteristic raised, red, and scaly patches. The rash can vary in severity from mild to severe, impacting different areas of the body.
- Appearance: The rash typically presents as well-defined, raised plaques (patches) that are red or pink and covered in silvery-white scales.
- Location: Common locations include the knees, elbows, scalp, trunk (back and chest), and even fingernails and toenails. However, it can appear anywhere on the body.
- Symptoms: Beyond the visible rash, individuals may experience itching, burning, or soreness in the affected areas. Severe cases can cause cracking and bleeding skin.
The underlying cause of psoriasis is an overactive immune system. This leads to inflammation and rapid skin cell growth, resulting in the psoriatic rash. There is no single cure, but various treatments are available to manage symptoms and reduce the severity of the rash.
