Plaque Psoriasis

Skin Problems Slideshow

• Plaque Psoriasis Overview
• Plaque Psoriasis Causes
• Plaque Psoriasis Symptoms
• Plaque Psoriasis Diagnosis and Treatment
• Next Steps
• For More Information
• Web Links
• Multimedia
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors
• Related psoriasis article:
  Psoriasis - on WebMD

Psoriasis Overview

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis. The skin is red and covered with silvery scales and is inflamed. Patches of circular to oval shaped red plaques that itch or burn are typical of plaque psoriasis. The patches are usually found on the arms, legs, trunk, or scalp but may be found on any part of the skin. The most typical areas are the knees and elbows.


Plaque psoriasis. Image courtesy of Hon Pak, MD.

Psoriasis is not contagious and can be inherited. Environmental factors such as smoking, sun exposure, alcoholism, and HIV infection may affect how often the psoriasis occurs and how long the flare-ups last.

Approximately 1-2% of people in the United States, or about 5.5 million, have plaque psoriasis.

Psoriasis affects children and adults. Men and women are equally affected. Females develop plaque psoriasis earlier than males. The first peak occurrence of plaque psoriasis is in people aged 16-22 years. The second peak is in people aged 57-60 years.

Psoriasis can affect all races. Studies have shown that more people in western European and Scandinavian populations have psoriasis than those in other population groups.