Guttate psoriasis is characterized by the presence of dark red spots on various parts of the body. In Latin, the word “Guttate” means drop and since the spots look like a water droplets or teardrop, the name Guttate psoriasis is given to describe this skin condition. Many times, this infection starts after 3-4 weeks of strep throat infection.
Causes :
This type of psoriasis or skin condition develops generally after an infection. It affects persons who are below 25 years and mostly after some serious infection like Streptococcus. Hereditary is the main cause for getting this skin problem since it runs over to families.
Lowered immune system or hormonal imbalance can also trigger skin psoriasis on some individuals.
Autoimmune response is also another reason for Guttate psoriasis in which the person’s own immune mechanism attacks the cells causing dark spots.Chickenpox and common cold may also give rise to skin psoriasis.
Small injury to the skin, bacterial infection, stress, intake of powerful medicines and exposure to sun are some of the other factors which trigger psoriasis.
Patients who are undergoing chemotherapy or other radioactive therapy for cancer may also get this skin disorder.
Symptoms :
Small tear-shaped drops are seen on the arms, legs, and middle of the body. It may take pink or red color and covered with flaky skin or scales. Itching and pain are common in this skin problem. The infection may initially start in the trunk region but later have chance to spread to face and even ears on some people. Unlike chronic psoriasis, there will not be any change in nails.
Tests :
Your doctor will physically examine the spots and if needed, he may carry out skin biopsy or throat culture for confirming the infection.
Treatment :
Treatment methods depend on the intensity of skin condition. Mild forms of psoriasis can be cured through home remedies. Apply cortisone ointment or moisturizing lotion on the affected part for few days for getting relief. Over the counter medicines or dandruff shampoo can be used for controlling itching and inflammation.
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear off the strep throat infection and for removing spots. Erythromycin, Penicillin VK, rifampin and Rimactane is prescribed for people with strep infection positive. Corticosteroids and cyclosporine are given for severe forms of psoriasis. In rare cases, phototherapy is given by exposing the affected part to UV light.
PUVA therapy is a special method that offers cure by UV light combined with psoralen drugs. It increases the white blood cells thus protecting the body from psoriasis symptoms.
Pictures of Guttate Psoriasis :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Guttate Psoriasis
Complications :
Sometimes, guttate psoriasis may cause secondary infection or pain associated with severe itching.
Prevention :
Guttate psoriasis cannot be prevented. However you can be cautious if you are infected with strep throat and check for psoriasis outbreak. Do not involve in vigorous rubbing of skin which may cause lesions.