A diverse group of skin conditions with a shared appearance
Papulosquamousdisorders are a diverse group of unrelated skin conditions.
Some of the most common papulosquamous disorders include psoriasis,lichen planus, and medication reactions.
These patches may or may not itch.
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The defining characteristic of papulosquamous disorders, however, is the sharp, distinct border of these lesions.
Papulosquamous lesions can look incredibly similar to one another, which makes diagnosis tricky in some cases.
Examples of papulosquamous disorders include:
Psoriasis
Psoriasisis probably the most well-known papulosquamous disorder.
It is also the most common.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes skin cells to build up at an abnormal rate.
Plaque psoriasis is the most common, but there are many differenttypes of psoriasis.
This skin condition is chronic, and it can’t be cured.
It can be managed, however, with the right medications and self-care.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitisis a chronic inflammatory skin condition that commonly affects the scalp.
It can cause red and greasy patches or scales on the skin, along with yellowish scales and dandruff.
The exact cause of this condition is unknown.
This papulosquamous disorder is typically treated with over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos and creams.
A healthcare provider may prescribe antifungal creams and shampoos or a topicalcorticosteroidfor more severe cases.
Lichen Planus
Lichen planuscauses purplish, flat, itchy lesions.
The rash can appear anywhere on the body, including inside the mouth.
Until it does, it is often treated with topical corticosteroids to help relieve itching.
Licen planus is not contagious.
Diagnosis of this papulosquamous disorder can be difficult, but usually requires a skin biopsy.
Treatment may include corticosteroids and phototherapy.
Drug Eruptions
Skin rashes can also be caused when you have a reaction to a medication.
Drug eruptions usually appear within the first two weeks of starting a new medication.
These rashes are typically very itchy.
If you develop a rash after starting a new medication, let your healthcare provider know immediately.
It seems to be triggered by a viral infection.
A widespread rash develops after that.
Pityriasis rosea does go away on its own, generally within two months.
Anti-itch creams or hydrocortisone can help relieve itching until it’s gone.
Secondary Syphilis
Syphilisis a sexually-transmitted infection (STI) sparked by theTreponema pallidumbacterium.
Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics.
Despite the name, this papulosquamous disorder is sparked by a fungus and not a worm.
Ringworm is easily treated with topical antifungal medication.
Unfortunately, it is also very contagious and is easily spread by skin-to-skin contact.
Discoid Lupus
Discoid lupusis a form of lupus that primarily affects your skin.
It is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack your skin.
With discoid lupus, a chronic, widespread, inflammatory rash is common.
It can be effectively treated although not cured.
Unlike common eczema, the lesions of nummular eczema are very distinct.
This papulosquamous disorder is extremely itchy.
A Word From Verywell
Papulosquamous disorders are diverse and distinct.
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Papulosquamous disorders: atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and nickel contact dermatitis.
