WHAT IS MODERATE TO SEVERE PLAQUE PSORIASIS?

Millions have it—learn how to recognize the symptoms

Actor portrayal of a SOTYKTU® patient looking over her shoulder, smiling.

PLAQUE PSORIASIS DEFINED

Plaque psoriasis is a common condition characterized by red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin.

These patches, also called plaques, can appear anywhere on the body. They often appear on the knees, elbows, lower back, and scalp. 

Psoriasis triggers can include stress, environmental or genetic factors, certain medications, and infections. Psoriasis triggers can vary from person to person.

Psoriasis plaques on an arm

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WHAT CAUSES PLAQUE PSORIASIS?

Plaque psoriasis begins inside the body, with the immune system.

With plaque psoriasis, the immune system can become “overactive” and create inflammation, ultimately causing skin cells to build up and form plaques. These plaques often cause irritated patches on the skin, resulting from a mix of triggers.

An overactive immune system results in build up of skin cells, causing plaques to form on the skin.

COMMON TRIGGERS OF MODERATE TO SEVERE PLAQUE PSORIASIS

Genetics: If psoriasis runs in your family, you may be more likely to develop it as certain genes can be linked to the condition.

Key Triggers: While triggers vary between individuals, flare-ups are often caused by stress, skin injuries, infections, medications, or even environmental changes.

SYMPTOMS OF MODERATE TO SEVERE PLAQUE PSORIASIS

The symptoms of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis can look different from person to person.

Symptoms may include:

  • Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales
  • Small scaling spots
  • Dry, cracked skin that may bleed or itch
  • Itching, burning, skin tightness, or stinging
Symptoms of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis include itching, burning, stinging, pain, and skin tightness.

HOW IS MODERATE TO SEVERE PLAQUE PSORIASIS DIAGNOSED?

Chronic plaque psoriasis is diagnosed by a healthcare professional—often a primary care provider or a dermatology (skin) specialist.

PLAQUE PSORIASIS TREATMENT OPTIONS
may be prescription or over-the-counter and include:
Plaque psoriasis treatment options include pills

An oral tablet or pill:

A systemic treatment that works inside the body

Plaque psoriasis treatment options include topicals

Cream or ointment:
A topical treatment applied directly to the skin

Plaque psoriasis treatment options include injections.

Shots or injections:
Treat plaque psoriasis from inside the body

Plaque psoriasis treatment options include UVB (light) therapy.

UVB (light) therapy:
Exposes skin to specialized ultraviolet light under medical supervision

REAL PEOPLE, REAL PHOTOS

See photos of real patients treating their moderate to severe plaque psoriasis with SOTYKTU


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