by Michelle Badash, MS
En Espaol (Spanish Version) Psoriasis can be difficult to diagnose, because the symptoms can be similar to other skin conditions. Currently, there is no blood test or diagnostic tool that can conclusively diagnose psoriasis.
Your healthcare provider may do the following tests to determine whether or not you have psoriasis:
Physical examination Your healthcare provider will begin by carefully examining your skin, scalp, fingernails, and toenails for reddening or scaling skin that is characteristic of psoriasis. Small pits on the fingernails are also signs of psoriasis. Your doctor will also examine your joints for signs of psoriatic arthritis.
Skin biopsy To confirm the diagnosis, your healthcare provider may also take a small sample of skin (a biopsy) to test for psoriasis.
Severity of Psoriasis
Psoriasis affects people with varying degrees of severity. Seventy-five percent to 80% of people with psoriasis have what is considered mild psoriasis, while the remaining 20% to 25% have moderate to severe psoriasis. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
If you do have psoriasis, your healthcare provider will assess the severity and grade it according to the following guidelines:Mild psoriasis If the psoriasis covers less than 2% of your body, it is considered mild. Usually, people with mild cases develop isolated patches of psoriasis on the knees, elbows, scalp, hands, and feet. Moderate psoriasis If the psoriasis covers 2% to 10% of your body, it is considered a moderate case. Psoriasis may appear on the arms, legs, torso, scalp, and other areas. Severe psoriasis When psoriasis covers more than 10% of your body, it is considered severe. Large areas of skin may be covered with psoriasis plaques or pustules, or widespread erythrodermic psoriasis can cause severe peeling of the skin. People with severe psoriasis are more likely to develop psoriatic arthritis. References: American Academy of Dermatologywebsite. Available at: http://www.aad.org/default.htm/ . National Psoriasis Foundation website. Available at: http://www.psoriasis.org/home/ . Last reviewed January 2007 by Lawrence Frisch, MD, MPHPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
