What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis vulgaris is a benign, chronic inflammatory, non-infectious skin disease. It is characterized by easily distinguishable, reddish patches, usually covered by whitish scales. The skin changes are mainly found on the extensor sides of the extremities (elbows, knees, possibly hairy scalp) and can be accompanied by itching as well as nail changes.
Polyarthritis (inflammation of several joints) can also occur in the context of psoriasis. Psoriasis has an inherited component, which is why several family members are usually affected in a family. The symptoms of psoriasis are relapsing and are caused by certain trigger factors to which the immune system overreacts: Psoriasis is caused by a benign proliferation of the epidermis.
This leads to increased keratinization and widening of the epidermis. In addition, the epidermis becomes inflamed and blood circulation is increased. Psoriasis can be roughly divided into three forms.
There are also other special forms.
- Infections (e.g. streptococcus infection)
- Medication (e.g. beta-blockers, antirheumatic drugs)
- Psychological stress
- Alcoholism
- Increased nicotine consumption
- Stopping a cortisone therapy
- Psoriasis vulgaris (general)
- Psoriasis pustulosa (pustular)
- Psoriasis of the Nail
This is how I recognize the differences
Psoriasis and neurodermatitis show some important differences. Both diseases have a hereditary component, but it plays a significant role in psoriasis and usually leads to a family history of the disease. Neurodermatitis usually first appears between the 3rd and 6th month of life.
In psoriasis, the age of first manifestation is significantly higher (between the ages of 20 and 30). There are also differences in the distribution pattern of the skin changes. Psoriasis occurs mainly on the extensor sides of the arms and legs and on the rear lower back above the buttocks.In addition, the hairy scalp and the fingernails are usually also affected.
In neurodermatitis, the itchy, reddened skin areas are usually found on the crook of the arm, the hollow of the knee, and the head and neck area. In contrast to neurodermatitis, patients with psoriasis usually do not suffer from itching and dry skin. In psoriasis, in contrast to neurodermatitis, there are strongly demarcated, red skin areas covered by scales.
In neurodermatitis, the skin changes are usually blurred, reddened and dry. Neurodermatitis is a disease of the atopic form. The atopic form belongs to the atopic form circle: Asthma, neurodermatitis and allergic rhinitis with conjunctivitis (rhinocunjunctivitis) including hay fever and dust mite allergy.
Neurodermatitis often occurs together with other diseases of the atopic form. Psoriasis has nothing to do with an allergy and therefore does not belong to the atopic group. Psoriasis often leads to an inflammation of the joints (psoriasis-arthritis).
In psoriasis, the inflammation of the skin is usually more pronounced. A distinction is made between certain phenomena that are important for the diagnosis of psoriasis and are not found in neurodermatitis: Ultimately, the distinction between the two diseases is important for the respective therapy. In psoriasis, the main focus is on the increased keratinization and inflammation of the skin.
The therapy should above all cause a dissolution of the excess corneal cells and a reduction of cell proliferation and skin inflammation. With neurodermatitis it is important to avoid trigger factors/allergens. In addition, the loss of moisture through the upper layers of the skin should be reduced with the help of a basic care product.
- “candle dropping phenomenon” (scratching causes lamellar scaling)
- “Phenomenon of the last cuticle” (at the base of the scale a thin, easily tearable cuticle can be seen)
- “Phenomenon of bloody dew” (further scratching leads to spot bleeding)
