Question 1

Bleeding when I peel off scales (Auspitz sign)

Accepted Answer

A characteristic sign of psoriasis. The skin under the scale is thinned with dilated vessels, so forcibly removing scales causes pinpoint bleeding.

Question 2

Psoriasis appears where I get cuts (Koebner phenomenon)

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis lesions newly appear where normal skin gets injured. Avoid skin irritation thoroughly: scrubbing, scratching, tattoos.

Question 3

Red dots all over after a cold (guttate psoriasis)

Accepted Answer

This is acute 'guttate psoriasis' appearing after sore throat or tonsillitis. Streptococcal infection stimulates the immune system, triggering the disease.

Question 4

What is psoriasis? Is it from dryness?

Accepted Answer

Not simple dryness. It is a chronic inflammatory skin disease where immune dysfunction causes excessive proliferation of keratinocytes, producing silvery scales and red patches.

Question 5

Is psoriasis hereditary?

Accepted Answer

There is a genetic factor, but it's not 100% inherited. Even without family history, environmental triggers like stress, infection, and medications can cause onset.

Question 6

Difference between psoriasis and atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Atopy: itching is main symptom, occurs in flexural areas. Psoriasis: scales (plaques) are main symptom, mainly on extensor areas like elbows and knees.

Question 7

Scalp psoriasis vs. seborrheic scalp dermatitis — how to tell?

Accepted Answer

Scalp psoriasis is covered with thick silvery scales that can extend past the hairline; seborrheic scalp dermatitis has yellow flakes and oiliness.