Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis (drop-like) is a sub type of psoriasis that presents with a salmon colored skin rash. The rash has a fine scaly appearance with round lesions. The rash is itchy and usually starts in the truck and spreads outwards. Nail changes are not seen with this type of psoriasis.

Guttate psoriasis usually occurs after an upper respiratory tract infection, esp. strep throat. The skin rash usually occurs 2-3 weeks after the onset of the strep throat. In most individuals, the rash disappears after the strep throat has been treated. However, in some unlucky individuals, the more episodes of throat infections, the more frequent is the skin rash.

Who gets Guttate psoriasis?

Guttate psoriasis is more common in the younger adults and children. Both genders are equally affected. This type of psoriasis does tend to run in families and it is believed that certain genes make one more prone to developing Guttate psoriasis.

Guttate psoriases is triggered by:

- strep throat infection- this is the most common throat infection associated with Guttate psoriasis

- Chicken pox

- Rubella

Treatment

In most cases no active treatment is required because the rash disappears once the throat infection has subsided. One may keep the skin moist and can apply topical steroids to reduce the itch.

Antibiotics may be required to treat the throat infection

For those who have severe psoriasis, UV light or psoralen drugs may be recommended by the dermatologist.

Guttate psoriasis is not preventable. To minimize flare ups, one should avoid vigorous scratching or rubbing of the lesions as this may lead to development of new lesions.

In some patients, Guttate psoriasis can progress to the chronic plaque variety.