Both psoriasis and vitiligo are close relatives and are inflammatory autoimmune diseases. We will take a look at psoriasis and vitiligo individually.
At times, this autoimmune disease can be triggered by infections, stress, colds and is the most common autoimmune disease that affects Americans. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes the body to produce new cells in days rather than weeks. Within those few days these cells overgrow, producing scaly, red plaques with thickened skin. Most commonly found on the elbows, lower back, scalp and knees this chronic skin condition can appear anywhere on the body. Though there is currently no cure for psoriasis, the providers at Bay Dermatology can guide you towards the best treatment plan to relieve the irritation that comes with this skin condition.
Causes of Psoriasis:
- Genetics
- Stress
- Infections
- Colds
- Medications
- Environmental factors
- Smoking
Types of Psoriasis:
Plaque Psoriasis – The most common form which causes thickened, red scaly patches that may be itchy and tender. These commonly appear on the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp.
Nail Psoriasis – Pitting, discoloration and abnormal nail growth are signs of nail psoriasis.
Guttate Psoriasis – Primarily affecting young adults and kids this form of psoriasis is typically triggered by bacterial infections. Guttate Psoriasis will appear as small, scaling lesions on the arms, legs and trunk of the body.
Inverse Psoriasis – Fungal infections are the main cause of this form of psoriasis. These areas may appear as smooth, red colored patches that get worse with sweat and friction. Inverse psoriasis is usually found on the groin, glutes and chest.
Pustular Psoriasis – This rare form of psoriasis appears as clearly defined, pus filled lesions that are usually found in large patches or on smaller areas of the body such as the hands or soles of the feet.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis – This is the least common form of psoriasis and may cover your entire body. It will appear as a red peeling rash that will itch and burn.
Psoriastic Arthritis – This form of psoriasis affects the joints and will cause swelling, joint pain and progressive joint damage.
Treatment options:
- XTRAC Laser
- Photo/Light therapy
- Topical creams
Psoriasis affects over 7.5 million Americans
3% of the world suffers with psoriasis
Usually appears between the ages 15-35
Psoriasis is not contagious
Vitiligo:
When your pigment producing cells stop functioning we call the skin condition Vitiligo. This will appear as blotches of skin that no longer have any color to them. Vitiligo can affect any part of the body and are usually more noticeable on people with darker skin. There is currently no cure for this skin condition and the causes remain unknown but after a simple office visit our team can guide you towards a treatment plan that best suits your needs.
Treatment options:
- Laser therapy
- Light therapy
- Topical creams
There are more than 200,000 cases of Vitiligo in America every year
Vitiligo affects 1% of the worlds population
Vitiligo is not contagious
The experts at Bay Dermatology
Contact the experts at Bay Dermatology. Voted by the people of Tampa Bay as the number one dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons we are here to find the perfect treatment for you. We look forward to bringing out your confidence and the natural beauty of your skin.