Symptoms of Psoriasis

While there are several types of psoriasis, the most common form is plaque psoriasis. Symptoms of plaque psoriasis include red, itchy skin that is covered by silvery scales or lesions that shed. These lesions may appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the knees, lower back, elbows, and scalp.

Other types of psoriasis and their symptoms include:

Guttate psoriasis – May be triggered by a bacterial infection. Symptoms include small water-drop-shaped sores on the arms, legs, scalp, or trunk.

Inverse psoriasis – Appears in folds of skin such as in the armpit, under the breast, in the groin area, or around the genitals. Symptoms include smooth patches of red, inflamed skin.

Pustular psoriasis – Pus-filled blisters that appear on skin that has become red and tender. The blisters are often found on hands, feet, and fingertips and tend to dry up in a few days but may reappear every few days or weeks. They are sometimes accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, weight loss, and fatigue.

Erythrodermic psoriasis – Can affect the entire body and is characterized by red, peeling skin that may burn or itch. This condition may be triggered by the use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids, or by severe sunburn. It may also develop from other types of psoriasis that is left untreated.

Nail psoriasis

Psoriasis and a related condition, psoriatic arthritis, may affect the fingernails and toenails. About 80% of people with psoriatic arthritis and about 50% of people with psoriasis will experience nail changes.

Nail psoriasis includes symptoms such as:

• Pitting or the formation of holes in the nails
• Onycholysis or "lifting" of the nail from the nail bed
• Thickening and discoloration of the nail, usually to brown or yellow

Because psoriasis is a chronic condition that can progress over time, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis and to understand the challenges and risks that accompany the disease.

More than physical symptoms – the emotional effects of psoriasis

Most people with psoriasis are able to lead normal, productive lives, but sometimes the disease can be frustrating, even stressful. Some people with psoriasis find that it interferes with their everyday life – from work to social life to personal relationships. The visible and often painful skin symptoms of psoriasis can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. This can sometimes limit social interaction with the people around you and interfere with normal daily activities. And it can even lead to feelings of embarrassment, frustration, low self-esteem, or even depression.

If you are not satisfied with your current psoriasis treatment, talk to your doctor about REMICADE.

REMICADE is approved for the treatment of adult patients with chronic severe (extensive and/or disabling) plaque psoriasis under the care of a physician who will determine if REMICADE is appropriate considering other available therapies.

REMICADE is not for everyone. Only your doctor can decide if REMICADE is right for you.

Please read the Medication Guide and discuss with your doctor.
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