What Psoriasis Does to Your Body
Psoriasis Skin Plaques
The most common sign of psoriasis is a psoriasis plaque, a raised, red skin patch covered by a silvery-white coating. Eight out of 10 people with psoriasis have plaques. These patches can form anywhere on your skin but are most likely to show up on your knees, elbows, lower back, and scalp. You may have several patches that join together to form a big patch. Plaques are itchy, but resist scratching them because scratching can make them become thicker.
Medically Reviewed By: Cynthia Haines, MD
Last Annual Review Date: 2011-10-27
Copyright: © 2012 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.
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Did You Know?
View SourceAbout 30% of psoriasis sufferers experience joint inflammation that produces symptoms of arthritis. This condition is called psoriatic arthritis.