Psoriasis

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition that can cause itchy, scaly, and thickened skin. It’s associated with an inflammatory condition called psoriatic arthritis. There’s no cure for psoriasis, but seeking treatment can help your child manage their symptoms using simple methods. See Dr. Trager at the first sign of new or unusual skin changes. 

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Psoriasis can cause skin that is:

• Scaly
• Flaky
• Bumpy 
• Thickened
• Inflammed
• Shedding
• Red
• Rashed 
• Raised 
• Discolored
• Itchy
• Dry
• Cracked
• Uncomfortable or painful

Psoriasis can affect any part of the skin, including a child’s face, mouth, elbows, knees, back, and scalp — as well as their toenails, fingernails, feet, hands, and genitals. It often covers small areas of the skin, though psoriasis sometimes covers larger surface areas.

Your child might also have crumbly, cracked, or pitted nails because of psoriasis. 

Scratching skin with psoriasis can increase the risk of open sores and infections. 

What are the risk factors for psoriasis?

Risk factors for developing psoriasis include:

• Family history of psoriasis
• Having psoriatic arthritis
• Immune system abnormalities

More than 3% of people in the United States have psoriasis. About 1 in 3 people with psoriasis also develop arthritis, which can lead to joint pain. 

Risk factors for psoriasis flare-ups (increased symptoms) include emotional stress, skin injuries, infections, some medications, and weather changes. Psoriasis isn’t contagious. 

How is psoriasis diagnosed?

Dr. Trager diagnoses psoriasis by discussing your child’s symptoms and medical history and examining their skin. He may take a skin biopsy (skin sample) and examine it under a microscope to confirm a diagnosis and develop an effective treatment.

How is psoriasis treated?

Your child’s personalized psoriasis treatment plan may include:

• Medications
• Creams
• Moisturizers
• Medicated shampoos or lotions
• Vitamin A creams
• Vitamin D ointments
• Light therapy

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits may reduce the risk of psoriasis flare-ups. It’s helpful to exercise regularly, eat a nutritious diet, avoid smoking, and get plenty of sleep. Follow up with Dr. Trager to ensure your child’s treatment is effective and long-lasting. 

Schedule a telehealth psoriasis evaluation at TeleDerm Kidz by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.