Psoriasis is a common chronic skin disease, characterized by the appearance of red, scaly patches on the skin. However, there are many other skin conditions that may resemble psoriasis in appearance, making an accurate diagnosis process that requires the expertise of a doctor. In this article, we will learn about the most important skin diseases that may be confused with psoriasis, and how the doctor can distinguish them accurately.
Psoriasis-like skin diseases and the most prominent differences
- Eczema:
- Common symptoms: itching, dryness, inflammation.
- Differences: Eczema generally appears as moist red spots, while psoriasis spots are dry and scaly.
- Treatment: Treatment for eczema differs from psoriasis treatment, as it focuses on moisturizing the skin and relieving inflammation.
- Contact dermatitis:
- Common symptoms: redness, itching, swelling of the skin.
- Differences: Contact dermatitis appears in areas that come into contact with an irritant or allergen, and is limited to these areas.
- Pink bran:
- Common symptoms: scaly red spots on the skin.
- Differences: Pink bran begins with one large spot, then smaller spots appear around it in the shape of a Christmas tree.
- Skin fungus:
- Common symptoms: itching, flaking, red spots.
- Differences: Skin fungus is concentrated in warm, moist areas of the body and appears as circular patches with elevated edges.
How is psoriasis diagnosed?
- Physical examination: The doctor examines the skin thoroughly and observes the shape, color, and texture of the spots.
- History: The doctor asks about the patient’s medical history, and factors that may contribute to the onset of the disease, such as a family history of psoriasis, and exposure to environmental influences.
- Biopsy: In some cases, the doctor may take a small sample of skin to analyze under a microscope and confirm the diagnosis.
- Other tests: Your doctor may need to perform other tests to rule out other skin conditions, such as a blood test or fungal culture.
The importance of accurate diagnosis
- Appropriate treatment: Choosing the right treatment depends on the type of disease, so an accurate diagnosis is the first step to effective treatment.
- Avoid complications: Misdiagnosis can lead to the use of inappropriate treatments, which can worsen the condition or develop complications.
- Peace of mind for the patient: An accurate diagnosis helps the patient better understand his condition and plan long-term treatment.
Diagnosing psoriasis requires experience and skill by a doctor, as it must be differentiated from many other skin diseases that may resemble it in appearance. Through physical examination, disease history, and laboratory tests, the doctor can reach an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
