Papulosquamous (Psoriasis, Lichen)
Plaque Psoriasis
WHAT IS IT
A chronic immune-driven skin condition
HOW COMMON
Common — affects millions of people
CONTAGIOUS?
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
CURABLE?
Not curable, but very manageable
What Is It?
Plaque psoriasis is a long-term condition where the skin makes new cells far too quickly. This causes raised, red patches (plaques) topped with silvery scale, most often on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp. It tends to flare and settle over time.
Signs & Symptoms
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Raised, red or pink patches with silvery-white scale
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Itching, burning, or soreness
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Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
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Commonly on elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp
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Sometimes thick, pitted, or ridged nails
Why Does It Happen?
Psoriasis is driven by an overactive immune system that speeds up skin cell growth. It has a genetic component and often runs in families. Flares can be triggered by stress, infections, skin injury, certain medications, smoking, and alcohol. It is NOT caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious.
Treatment Options
Treatment calms the overactive immune response and clears plaques. Your provider matches the approach to how much skin is involved and how it affects you.
TOPICAL TREATMENTS
Steroid and vitamin-D creams for localized plaques — the usual first step.
PHOTOTHERAPY
Controlled UVB light treatments for more widespread disease.
SYSTEMIC MEDICINES
Oral pills that calm the immune system for moderate-to-severe cases.
BIOLOGICS
Targeted injections for moderate-to-severe psoriasis that resists other care.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Moisturize daily to reduce scaling and cracking
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Avoid scratching or picking, which can trigger new plaques
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Identify and limit your personal flare triggers
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Limit smoking and alcohol, which can worsen psoriasis
When to Call Your Provider
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Plaques spread rapidly or cover a large area
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Joints become painful, stiff, or swollen (possible psoriatic arthritis)
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Skin becomes very red, peels widely, or you feel unwell
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Current treatment stops working or causes side effects
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Psoriasis: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/what/overview
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Psoriasis. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-conditions/psoriasis/
DermNet. Plaque Psoriasis. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/plaque-psoriasis
MSD/Merck Manual. Psoriasis. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/psoriasis-and-scaling-diseases/psoriasis
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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