Psoriasis and eczema are both skin conditions that can cause red, itchy patches, but they differ in their appearance and underlying causes.
Key Differences
| Feature | Psoriasis | Eczema |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Well-defined red plaques with thick, silvery-white scales. Often "heaped-up" | Poorly defined, red, dry areas with fine scales. |
| Border | Well-circumscribed (distinct borders) | Poorly demarcated (less defined borders) |
| Scaling | Thick, silvery white | Fine |
| Redness | Pronounced | Can be less pronounced compared to psoriasis |
Detailed Explanation:
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Psoriasis, according to Paller, manifests as red, well-circumscribed lesions, also called plaques. These plaques are characterized by their heaped-up, white scaling. The borders are distinct, meaning the affected skin sharply transitions from affected to unaffected areas. The scales are typically thick and silvery-white.
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Eczema, on the other hand, is usually seen as poorly demarcated red, dry areas with fine scale. The borders of the affected areas are less defined and tend to fade into the surrounding skin. The scale is typically finer compared to that of psoriasis.
Examples and Practical Insights:
- Location: While both can appear anywhere, psoriasis often appears on the elbows, knees, and scalp, while eczema is common in areas like the inner elbows, behind the knees, and on the face.
- Itchiness: Both conditions can be itchy, but the intensity may vary, and scratching can worsen the inflammation.
- Treatment: Treatments also vary for both conditions. Psoriasis might require treatments like topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, or systemic medications, while eczema is often managed with moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, and, in some cases, immunosuppressants.
- Flare-ups: Both conditions can have periods of flare-ups and remission, but the triggers can be different. Psoriasis triggers can include stress and certain infections, whereas eczema flare-ups are often caused by environmental factors such as allergens and irritants.
- Underlying Causes: Psoriasis is primarily an autoimmune condition, while eczema is often linked to genetics, environmental triggers, and immune system irregularities.
Summary
In short, the key differences are the appearance of the lesions – well-defined plaques with thick scales in psoriasis versus poorly defined, dry areas with fine scales in eczema – and the distinctiveness of the borders.
