Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate Psoriasis is a rare form of psoriasis that usually appears after a strep throat infection. This condition is usually seen in children, as well as adults under the age of 30. Guttate Psoriasis starts very suddenly as a rash appearing small, light pink, tear-drop shaped bumps which usually form on the torso, arms and legs.

How would I get Guttate Psoriasis?

Sometimes a person may only develop Guttate Psoriasis once, or after strep throat or other infections. Other times, it may be a sign that the patient could develop another form of psoriasis known as Plaque Psoriasis. Marked by red, scaly, inflamed patches of skin, Plaque Psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. It is quite a manageable condition that is not life threatening or contagious, and usually does not interfere with a person’s ability to function normally from day to day.

About 80% of people with Gutatte Psoriasis have had strep throat two or three weeks prior to the diagnosis. It usually strikes individuals who have recently recovered from a cold, chicken pox, skin injuries, infections or even individuals dealing with excess stress – times when the immune system may not be as strong.

Guttate Psoriasis:  An Immune System Disorder

Under normal circumstances, T-cells (the infection fighting white blood cells) fight against foreign invaders, such as streptococcus bacteria (strep throat-causing bacteria). However, for individuals with psoriasis the T-cells actually start attacking the skin forming the rash from a combination of damage to the skin by T-cells, inflammation in the skin and the overproduction of new skin cells.

Because of the characteristics of Guttate Psoriasis, it is easily diagnosable and usually no additional tests are necessary. As a precaution, individuals who develop Guttate Psoriasis should have their throat swabbed to see if they are carrying strep bacteria or are a carrier of strep. Guttate Psoriasis breakouts can last several weeks or months.

Psoriasis Rash and Underlying Infection Treatments

People diagnosed with strep throat and Guttate Psoriasis will need to take a regimen of antibiotics to treat the strep throat. Psoriasis treatments usually include thick, skin moisturizes and topical steroid creams that can help relieve the uncomfortable itching. Usually, Guttate Psoriasis will go away within a couple of weeks without further treatment.