Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Eczema  is an inflammatory skin condition that causes itchiness, dry skin, rashes, scaly patches, blisters and skin infections. Itchy skin is the most common symptom of eczema.

Person scratching an arm affected by severe eczema with visible red patches and inflamed skin

Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition caused by an overactive immune system, is much more than just dry skin. The constant discomfort, irritation, and confidence loss derived from this complex skin condition are all symptoms that can be examined and treated with the assistance of Dermatology of Seattle & Bellevue. With equipment like the state-of-the-art Pharos Laser, revolutionary UVB phototherapy and advanced biologics Dermatology of Seattle is are able to offer faster, safer, less expensive, and better overall treatment of psoriasis.

Even though there is no complete cure for psoriasis, there are plenty of options to reduce discomfort and increase your confidence. Our psoriasis dermatologists at Dermatology of Seattle & Bellevue know how this condition can impact your quality of life, and will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that best fits both your condition and your budget.

Psoriasis Treatment

Dermatology of Seattle is proud to offer several state-of-the-art options for treatment. The Pharos laser is a dramatic advancement in the treatment of psoriasis as it is capable of treating the harder Dermatology of Seattle is proud to offer several state-of-the-art options for treatment. The Pharos laser is a dramatic advancement in the treatment of psoriasis as it is capable of treating the harder

before and after image of psoriasis

Types of Psoriasis

Plaque Psoriasis

Also known as Chronic Stationary Psoriasis, this is the most common form of psoriasis. The scaly areas known as “plaques” are often found on the scalp, back, elbows, or knees. Coverage can vary from small patches to total body coverage. The immune system, family history or genetics, and environmental factors all play into the presence of plaque psoriasis. Some basic symptoms include burning, skin tightness, pain, or stinging in red patches of skin.

Guttate Psoriasis

This type of psoriasis is identified by several small, scaly, reddish lesions called papules. Typically appearing over large areas of the body like the torso or limbs, Guttate psoriasis can be triggered by streptococcal infections although the relationship between the two is not wholly understood.

Inverse Psoriasis

Can be referred to as flexural psoriasis. This develops as smooth but inflamed patches of skin around the genitals, armpits, or in the skin folds under the abdomen, breasts, or buttocks. Excessive heat, injury, and infection are possible contributors to the development of inverse psoriasis.

Pustular Psoriasis

Appearing as raised bumps that fill with a non-infectious pus composed of white blood cells. The skin surrounding the raised area is typically tender to the touch and red. This is a relatively uncommon form of psoriasis.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

This can be the exacerbated result of unstable plaque psoriasis, specifically if experiencing the sudden withdrawal of glucocorticoids, a steroid used to reduce inflammation. In extreme cases this type of psoriasis can be fatal due to the extreme inflammation and the disruption to the body’s natural abilities to maintain proper temperature and perform immunity based barrier functions.

Nail Psoriasis

Many of those with psoriasis can also experience a number of changes to the appearance of their finger and toe nails. Patients with psoriatic arthritis are more susceptible to experiencing nail psoriasis. Changes include the appearance of pinhead-sized craters in the nail known as pitting, whitening of the nail itself, small areas of bleeding underneath the nail, drying or loosening of the nail and sometimes separation of the nail entirely.

Psoriatic Arthritis

This chronic inflammatory arthritis typically involves a painful swelling of the connective tissue surrounding the joints of the body. Most commonly affected areas are fingers and toes, and may result in excessive swelling. Psoriatic arthritis also impacts hips, knees and the spine.

How Psoriasis can affect life

Psoriasis sufferers are impacted by more than just the discomfort and appearance of psoriasis. Often patients can lose confidence, feel discouraged, or embarrassed by their psoriasis. If you have been self-conscious about your psoriasis, we are here to help. At Dermatology of Seattle, we offer more than just treatment of the symptoms — we can help someone get enough confidence back to truly live their lives.

Hear from Our Patients:

Maela Moore
Maela Moore
February 4, 2024.
Gina Mower is knowledgeable, friendly and efficient. She has a special talent for putting people at ease. I also like this facility a lot. It is clean and spacious with beautiful art throughout.
Scott Allen
Scott Allen
February 4, 2024.
Had a great experience here. It was easy to get an appointment and I was seen right away. Would recommend highly.
Marti Kirby
Marti Kirby
January 19, 2024.
Totally happy with the surgery and results. I already made two more surgery appointments. Marti Kirby
Bev Meisl
Bev Meisl
December 29, 2023.
Wow, what a great experience. I was, so very, concerned about the spot on my side. Dr Levy immediately set my mind to rest and proceeded to treat my issues. Dr Levy and staff are top notch people.
Demetrio Cuevas
Demetrio Cuevas
December 20, 2023.
Personnel/staff are very professional. Nice office/facilities.
Mariah Spannbauer
Mariah Spannbauer
December 19, 2023.
Prompt care, kind and personal interactions, clear and detailed explanations about next steps. Excellent experience all around!
Spencer Fisken
Spencer Fisken
December 19, 2023.
Great staff and great location. They are the friendliest group of dermatologists I’ve met and they do a great job!
photo of burien waiting room

Get in Touch Now

Have questions or need assistance? Make sure to use our contact form for all inquiries.