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Flexural Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a non-contagious chronic skin disorder with no known cure. The name is derived from the Greek word Psora and means, “to itch”. It is the growth of too many skin cells. Where the normal skin matures in 20 to 30 days, the skin of a person with psoriasis takes only 3 to 6 days to mature. Psoriasis affects 1-3 percent of the world population and is not limited to a certain age group. People over 50 are more at risk but children; especially girls may also suffer from it. It is very common under people with fair skins and rarely affects dark skinned people. There are several types of Psoriasis of which Flexural Psoriasis appears as smooth red and dry skin areas without flaking. Flexural Psoriasis is also called Inverse Psoriasis, and is more common with overweight persons because it appears in the skin folds where most rubbing takes place. The illness is also associated with mental well being. Most patients experience depression, which in turn increases the symptoms of Psoriasis, and in return leads to more anxiety and stress. The plaques are sometimes infected with the fungi candida albicans. It sometimes appears at the site of injuries or scars.

Doctors believe it may have a generic link. Certain factors may lead to outbreaks of Flexural Psoriasis:

1. Smoking
2. Diet imbalances
3. Stress, depression, and anxiety
4. Arthritis
5. Colitis
6. Beta blockers
7. Antidepressant drugs
8. Seasonal changes
9. Excessive alcohol consumption
10. Excessive heat or cold

What does it look like?

Due to the moisture content of skin folds, Flexural Psoriasis doesn’t have the silver appearance that other types may have. Smooth dry and red patches characterize it. It has well defined borders and sometimes causes cracks in the skin crease. The skin may appear inflamed due to sweating and rubbing.

Affected Areas

Flexural Psoriasis appears in the following areas of the body:

1. Under the breasts
2. Armpits
3. Groin
4. Vulva
5. Penis
6. Navel
7. Anus
8. Natal cleft

Complications

1. Secondary fungal infections
2. Rubbing can also lead to a type of eczema called Lichenification
3. Discomfort during sexual intercourse when it is located at the vulva and groin area
4. Skin irritation due to rubbing, sweat and heat
5. Long-term use of topical steroid creams leads to thinning of the skin
6. Itching because of the stimulation of nerve fibers just below the skin surface

Diagnosis for Flexural Psoriasis

The doctor does a physical and visual examination and reviews your family history for Psoriasis. He will order a blood test if the joints are infected.

Treatment for Flexural Psoriasis