A skin irritation or rash can be a real pain. However, if properly diagnosed and treated, a skin ailment such as psoriasis can be managed and treated. The problem with that is psoriasis looks and feels very similar to an abundance of other rashes, and oftentimes a dermatologist may misdiagnose a different rash as psoriasis on the first examination. Below is a guide to some other rashes and skin ailments that are often mistaken for psoriasis.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a ring-like shape to appear on the outermost layer of your skin. Ringworm can be contracted through interacting with other individuals who have the infection or from soil that is contaminated.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis causes you to have itchy and scaly skin that appears on your face, back, and upper chest. It is primarily misdiagnosed as plaque psoriasis, but plaque psoriasis tends to have thicker lesions with clear borders. Seborrheic dermatitis tends to appear primarily in an oily portion of your skin, although it can also appear on your scalp, giving off a similar appearance to dandruff.
Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is an autoimmune skin disease that presents itself as flat lesions on your skin. The lesions can oftentimes arrange in rows on both your arms and legs, causing itching and even a burning sensation. If the skin becomes very irritated, white lines may appear as well.
Pityriasis Rosea
This common skin condition begins as only a small spot, but eventually takes on the appearance of pine branches. The rash is present on your back, chest, and stomach at first, but will then spread throughout the body.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a skin condition that results in red and itchy skin. You may develop reddish patches on your elbows, knees, neck, wrist, ankles, feet, hands, and upper chest. Atopic dermatitis is triggered by outside influences such as foods, pollen, or dust, while psoriasis is not triggered by these influencers.
Psoriasis Treatment in San Diego at CDCRI
If you want an expert dermatologist to look at your psoriasis and confirm the diagnosis, come to California Dermatology and Clinical Research Institute in San Diego. CDCRI is headed by Dr. Stacey Smith, an acclaimed and experienced dermatologist, with years working in the field. Not only can we confirm the diagnosis, but we also offer free psoriasis treatment. To learn more, give us a call at (760) 203-3839.