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Profile: Guttate Psoriasis

Definition: Guttate psoriasis, a specific variant of plaque psoriasis, is characterised by numerous small red patches less than one centimetre in size. These patches are circular, less thick, less scaly, and more widespread, meaning they can appear and spread across the entire body (particularly the limbs, torso, and back, sparing the palms and soles) within a few days. Predominantly affecting children, adolescents, and young adults, it accounts for 10 to 30% of cases in children. Its progression is variable and unpredictable. While in most cases, the flare-up is isolated, singular, and spontaneously regresses after a few weeks/months, guttate psoriasis can evolve into plaque psoriasis in some individuals (in one-third of cases).

Internal and external causes: Streptococcal infection (tonsillitis), genetic predisposition.

How to reduce or eliminate: The administration of oral antibiotics (generally, penicillin) in conjunction with a local treatment using dermocorticoids to alleviate itching and inflammation, or through the combination of calcipotriol-betamethasone; phototherapy treatment is used in cases of extensive and persistent guttate psoriasis.

Preventative steps to take: /