Knowing which type of psoriasis people have can help dermatologists determine the right treatment for them. At Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia, now a part of U.S. Dermatology Partners, we are dedicated to assisting patients in the Centreville area with their skin care concerns.
Triggers of psoriasis range from stress to certain medications. The most common types of psoriasis are plaque, nail, psoriatic, and erythrodermic. About 8 in 10 people suffer from plaque psoriasis, often called “psoriasis vulgaris.” Signs include raised, inflamed red skin covered in white or silver scales. Patients experience burning and itching on areas of the body where the condition develops including the knees, back, elbows, and scalp.
Nail changes are common among about half of psoriasis patients. Nail psoriasis signs include chalk-like material under the nails, separation of the nail from the bed, pitting of the nails, and color-changes. Patients may experience pain and tenderness and are at a higher risk of developing a fungal infection.
When psoriasis patients also have arthritis, they suffer from psoriatic arthritis. This leads to nail changes among 90 percent of patients as well as stiff, painful joints in the morning and after rest. Patients usually have psoriasis for about 10 years before developing psoriatic arthritis.
The most serious type, but least common, psoriasis is erythrodermic psoriasis. Signs include widespread fiery skin that appears burned. Patients experience itching, burning or peeling. There may be a change in body temperature and a faster heart rate. Therefore, it is critical to seek treatment immediately.
Our treatments include UV light therapy (phototherapy) in which we use ultraviolet light to provide relief to the symptoms of psoriasis. There is no need to suffer from psoriasis. We understand the condition can affect you emotionally as well as physically.
If you are interested in learning more about the services and treatments we offer, contact Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia Centreville. We assist patients of all ages in our state-of-the-art facility. We provide medical and cosmetic dermatology solutions to men and women at both our Centreville and Sterling locations. Our Centreville location can be reached at (703) 222-2773 and is conveniently located in Suite #301 at 13880 Braddock Road. We accept new patients who are ready for quality, comprehensive dermatological care.
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