Psoriasis Awareness Month

August is Psoriasis Awareness Month. Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system and genetics. About one-third of psoriasis patients have the disease in their family history. Psoriasis can also be triggered by other serious diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

There are five types of psoriasis, listed below in order of the most common:

Plaque Psoriasis – Appears in red patches with white buildup of dead skin cells.

Guttate – Appears as small, dotted lesions.

Inverse – Smooth, red lesions that most commonly appear on skin folds like knees and armpits.

Pustular – Characterized by white blisters of pus.

Erythodermic – Appears on most of the body as a widespread redness.

Psoriasis can show up anywhere, but most commonly appears on the scalp, hands and feet, face, and in skinfolds. Psoriasis is considered mild if it covers less than three percent of the body, moderate if it covers three to 10 percent and severe if it covers greater than 10 percent.

If you notice a rash that is not treatable with over-the-counter medicine, visit a dermatologist. A dermatologist will be able to examine the skin and determine a diagnosis. Call Knoxville Dermatology Group at (865)690-9467 for an appointment today.