Psoriasis Slideshow Pictures How Much Is Psoriasis Affecting Your Life? Is Your Psoriasis Treatment on Target?

Medical Author:

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.

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Medical Editor:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Guttate Psoriasis Symptoms and Signs

• Small, salmon-pink (or red) drops usually appear suddenly on the skin two to three weeks after a streptococcal infection, such as strep throat or tonsillitis.




A close-up view of guttate psoriasis. Notice the salmon-pink (red) droplike lesions. Fine scales can be seen on the lesions. These scales are much finer than those associated with plaque psoriasis.
Image courtesy of Hon Pak, MD.


• The droplike lesions usually itch.
• The outbreak usually starts on the trunk, arms, or legs and sometimes spreads to the face, ears, or scalp. The palms and the bottoms of the feet are usually not affected.
• Nail changes, such as pits and ridges, which are characteristic of chronic psoriasis, may be absent.