What Is Plaque Psoriasis?

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes thick, red patches on the skin, often covered by silvery-white scales. It is the most common type of psoriasis.^1,2

Plaque psoriasis can appear on any part of the body. But it is often found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. This condition is not contagious. You cannot catch it from someone else. But for those who live with it, psoriasis can greatly affect quality of life.^1,3

What are plaques, and why do they form?

Plaques are the hallmark sign of plaque psoriasis. They are raised, red patches of skin covered with a layer of silvery-white scales. These plaques are caused by the rapid overproduction of skin cells, which pile up on the skin’s surface.^1-3

Plaque psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. Normally, skin cells take about a month to grow and shed off. But in people with psoriasis, the immune system speeds up this process. Skin cells multiply too quickly, causing them to build up on the surface in the form of plaques. These plaques can be itchy and painful, and even crack or bleed.^2,3

What causes psoriasis?

Experts believe that genetics and environmental factors both play a role in the development of psoriasis:^1,2

• Genetics – While anyone can develop psoriasis, having a family history of the condition increases the likelihood.
• Environmental factors – For some people, environmental triggers like stress, infections, or skin injuries can cause flare-ups. During a flare-up, plaques and other symptoms become worse.

Symptoms of psoriasis

The main symptom of psoriasis is the appearance of red, inflamed patches of skin. Other common symptoms include:^1-3

• Silvery-white scales on the skin
• Dry, cracked skin
• Itching or pain

Thickened nails (nail psoriasis)

Related health conditions

Besides affecting the skin, psoriasis can also affect other aspects of your health. The condition is linked to inflammation throughout the body, which can lead to other health conditions, such as:^3,4

• Psoriatic arthritis – This condition causes swelling, pain, and stiffness in the joints.
• Cardiovascular disease – People with psoriasis have a higher risk of heart disease.
• Type 2 diabetes – Inflammation from plaque psoriasis can increase your chances of developing diabetes.
• Anxiety and depression – The visible nature of plaque psoriasis can lead to feelings of embarrassment or frustration, increasing anxiety and depression.

Treatment options for psoriasis

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many treatment options available to help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. These include:^1,2,5

• Topical treatments – Creams and ointments, such as corticosteroids, are applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth.
• Phototherapy – Light therapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. UV light can help slow down the growth of skin cells.
• Oral or injected medicines – For more severe cases, doctors may prescribe drugs that target the immune system, like biologics or immunosuppressants. These drugs work by calming the overactive immune response that causes psoriasis.
• Lifestyle changes – Managing triggers such as stress, skin injuries, or infections can help prevent flare-ups.