An uncommon form of psoriasis, guttate psoriasis usually affects the legs, arms, and trunk of the body. Instead of thick plaques, guttate psoriasis is characterized by small and fine pink or red drops.



There is a hereditary element to guttate psoriasis, but it is most commonly cause by a viral infection or a strep throat infection. The onset will often occur a few weeks after the infection. Guttate psoriasis may be reccurring or there may be a single outbreak. There is no cure for guttate psoriasis.

Since guttate psoriasis is mild, it is unlikely to cause scarring. Instead, your skin may feel irritated and itchy. Although it may be reoccurring, it is not a chronic problem and usually clears up in a few weeks.

Medication is not always necessary for guttate psoriasis. Treatments that can be purchased over-the-counter may be effective. Look for topical steroids that control the inflammation and itching. After bathing, moisturizing your skin will prevent it from becoming irritated.

Although over-the-counter treatments may be sufficient, you can also see your doctor for treatment. They may prescribe medication or decide to use ultraviolet light therapy, or phototherapy, to control the guttate psoriasis. With phototherapy, your skin is exposed to artificial ultraviolet light. It is an easy way to control a large area of psoriasis when compared with topical ointments and creams.

Whether or not you see your doctor, most cases of guttate psoriasis clear up after a few weeks. If the psoriasis is reoccurring or bothersome you'll want to see your physician. If you have a different form of psoriasis and suffer from a strep throat infection, you'll want to see your doctor to be prepared if guttate psoriasis occurs.

No matter which path you choose to deal with your guttate psoriasis, control the itching and irritation and you should be well again in a few weeks.