Types of Psoriasis (cont.)
Medical Author:
Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD
Gary W. Cole, MD, FAADDr. 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. Medical Editor:
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACRDr. 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. IN THIS ARTICLE
Guttate PsoriasisGuttate psoriasis looks like small, salmon-pink (or red) bumps on the skin. The word guttate is derived from the Latin word gutta, meaning drop. Usually, a fine scale is on the drop-like lesion that is much finer than the scales in plaque psoriasis. Guttate psoriasis usually occurs on the trunk, arms, or legs. However, it may cover a large portion of the body. This type of psoriasis often "runs its course" and may even go away without treatment in a few weeks. Many cases are more persistent and require treatment. 
Guttate psoriasis. Red drop-like lesions are found on the skin. Image courtesy of Hon Pak, MD. 
A close-up view of guttate psoriasis. Notice the salmon-pink (red) drop-like 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 guttate form of psoriasis is the second most common form of psoriasis. About 2% of those with psoriasis have the guttate type. This type of psoriasis is more common in children and adults younger than 30 years of age. The trigger to the disease is often a streptococcal (bacterial) throat infection. The eruption of the lesions on the skin usually occurs at two to three weeks after the person has strep throat. The outbreak can go away and not return. Outbreaks may also go away but return with repeated episodes of strep throat, particularly if the person is a strep carrier (always carries streptococcal bacteria in his respiratory system). Next Page: Must Read Articles Related to Types of Psoriasis
Guttate Psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that looks like small, salmon-pink drops on the skin. The word guttate is derived from the Latin word gutta, meaning dr...learn more >>
Nail Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common condition. A person with psoriasis generally has patches of raised red skin with silvery scales. The affected skin may look shiny and red ...learn more >>
Plaque Psoriasis
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 p...learn more >>
Viewer Comments & ReviewsTypes of Psoriasis - ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What type of psoriasis do you have? |
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Psoriasis »
Psoriasis is a chronic, noncontagious, multisystem, inflammatory disorder.
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