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The 5 Major Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis can appear on the skin in a variety of ways, with each type of psoriasis having very distinct symptoms and characteristics. Patients typically have only one type of psoriasis at a time.

It's important to know—and share with others—that no matter the type, psoriasis is not contagious.

Plaque

This is the most common type of psoriasis. It's characterized by raised, inflamed, red lesions covered by silvery white scales. Typically, it’s found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. About 80% of those who have psoriasis have this type.

Guttate

Guttate psoriasis often starts in childhood or young adulthood. It appears as small, red, individual spots on the skin of the torso, arms, and legs. These spots are not usually as thick as plaque lesions.

Inverse

Found in the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and in other skin folds around the genitals and the buttocks. This type of psoriasis appears as bright-red lesions that are smooth and shiny.

Pustular

Primarily seen in adults, pustular psoriasis is characterized by white blisters of noninfectious pus surrounded by red skin. It may either be localized to certain areas of the body, such as the hands and feet, or covering most of the body.

Erythrodermic

A particularly inflammatory form of psoriasis affecting most of the body surface, it is characterized by periodic, widespread, fiery redness of the skin and the shedding of scales in sheets.

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Watch. Listen. Learn.

Psoriasis 101

Find out about the causes of psoriasis and what is happening inside your body when symptoms occur.

Psoriasis FAQs

  • How severe can psoriasis become?

    It can be mild, moderate, or severe. The National Psoriasis Foundation considers mild psoriasis as affecting less than 3% of the body, 3-10% is considered to be moderate, and more than 10% is considered severe.

  • What can trigger my psoriasis to flare?

    Psoriasis triggers vary from person to person and can include stress, injury to skin, some types of infections, and certain medicines.

  • What parts of the body are most affected?

    Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body, but symptoms are most common on the scalp, knees, elbows, and torso.