Plaque Psoriasis
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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.
Next: Plaque Psoriasis Causes »
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Plaque Psoriasis
Psoriatic Arthritis Overview
Psoriatic arthritis is a specific condition in which a person has both psoriasis and arthritis. Psoriasis is a common condition. A person with psoriasis generally has patches of raised red skin with scales. The affected skin looks different depending on the type of psoriasis the individual has. Arthritis is joint inflammation.
Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning that your cells and antibodies (part of your immune system) fight your own tissues. Rarely, a person can have psoriatic arthritis without having obvious psoriasis. Usually, the more severe the skin symptoms are, the greater the likelihood a person will have psoriatic arthritis.
Severe psoriatic arthritis involving the finger joints.
Psoriasis affects 2.5% of white people in North America. It is less common in African American and Native American people. Psoriatic arthritis affects 5-8% of...
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Psoriasis, Plaque »
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, relapsing, inflammatory skin disorder with a strong genetic basis.
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