Unlike plaque psoriasis, where the skin is affected by plaques that tend to cover one solid area,guttate psoriasis looks more akin to chicken pox. The term guttate derives from the Latingutta which means "drop". Thus, guttate psoriasis is "drop psoriasis".
Guttate psoriasis may be either acute or chronic.
Sufferers of plaque psoriasis may experience an outbreak of guttate psoriasis. In otherwise healthy individuals, guttate psoriasis may occur as a result of a streptococcal infection (strep). The streptococcus bacteria afflicts the respiratory system and usually takes the form of "strep throat". The outbreak of guttate psoriasis usually occurs several weeks after the individual suffers from strep throat.
Guttate psoriasis can break out and disappear without ever returning (acute guttate psoriasis).
However, some people experience recurring outbreaks of this condition. Colds, chicken pox and other instances when the immune system is compromised are most likely to trigger an outbreak of guttate psoriasis.
Unlike the highly prevalent plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis is rather rare. About 1 in 50 psoriasis patients have this form of psoriasis.
Up to 8 out of 10 people with guttate psoriasis carry the streptococcus bacteria. Various viruses can also precipitate an acute bout of this condition. However, it is not clearly known which mechanisms connect the two.
The lesions of guttate psoriasis are small and pink in color and frequently itch quite strongly. The itching, combined with the unsightly appearance are the main inconveniences associated with this disease. Scarring is not typical of this condition.
For acute attacks of guttate psoriasis, the typical protocol is to allow the affliction to run its course. This usually lasts a few weeks without treatment.
However, since the condition causes substantial itching, a doctor may prescribe a topical cream or lotion to assuage the discomfort associated with itching. Chronic sufferers may require a more serious approach. Topical steroids are not an uncommon prescription for severe acute cases and outbreaks in chronic patients. These help to curb itching and inflammation.
Some doctors will take a throat culture to verify the presence of the strep bacteria and prescribe antibiotics to treat it.
In cases of chronic guttate psoriasis as a results of strep-related tonsillitis, a tonsillectomy may be an option to discuss with your doctor. Guttate psoriasis is not preventable except through the general maintenance of sound health and must generally be allowed to run its course after which it is unlikely to reoccur.
Posted in: Guttate Psoriasis
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