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Alternative names Return to top
Guttate psoriasisDefinition Return to top
A form of psoriasis with characteristic water drop shaped scaly macules.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Guttate psoriasis is a relatively uncommon form of psoriasis. It is usually seen in patients younger than 30. Flares generally follow an infection, most notably Strep throat.Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Diagnosis is usually based on the appearance of the skin. There is often a history of recent sore throat. Your physician may choose to perform a skin biopsy or throat culture to help confirm the diagnosis.Treatment Return to top
Treatment is focused on control of the symptoms and prevention of secondary infections. It varies with the extent and severity of the disorder.
If an infection can be identified, it should be treated with appropriate antibiotics.
Severe or resistant cases, or cases involving large areas of the body, may require intensive treatment or hospitalization. Mild cases are usually treated at home. Topical medications include:
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Psoriasis is not curable, but it can be controlled with treatment.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate guttate psoriasis. Update Date: 8/15/2003 Updated by: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |