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Could it Be Inverse Psoriasis?
Inverse psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that affects areas of the skin that rub together. You’re more likely to develop inverse psoriasis if you are overweight, and while there isn’t a cure, treatment helps to alleviate symptoms.
At Hines Dermatology Associates, Dr. Yvonne Hines provides exceptional dermatology and dermatopathology care to patients in the Attleboro, Massachusetts area. Dr. Hines has extensive experience serving patients with both common and rare skin issues, and is dedicated to helping patients with severe skin disorders.
Inverse psoriasis overview
Inverse psoriasis is characterized by an overproduction of skin cells. It is a form of psoriasis that shows up in skin folds such as:
- Armpits
- Navel
- Under breasts
- Groin
- Between buttocks
- Behind the ears
The lesions appear shiny and smooth and are typically brown, red, or purple.
People who are overweight may develop lesions in the folds under the chin and between the thighs. Inverse psoriasis can develop alone or with other types of psoriasis.
Experts believe an error in the immune system’s response is the underlying factor. However, a specific antibody has yet to be identified, leaving the exact cause unknown.
How is inverse psoriasis different from psoriasis?
Psoriasis causes thick, discolored patches (plaques) of skin that are covered in white or silvery scales.
Because it occurs in moist areas of your body, inverse psoriasis lacks the thick, scaly plaques seen in other types of psoriasis. In addition, inverse psoriasis appears shinier than a psoriasis rash.
Inverse psoriasis triggers
Inverse psoriasis can affect anyone. However, the following are some of the most common risk factors:
- Stress
- Smoking
- Being overweight
- Drinking alcohol
- Low vitamin D
Additionally, patients who do not take their psoriasis medication as prescribed are more likely to develop inverse psoriasis.
Diagnosing inverse psoriasis
Dermatologists like Dr. Hines possess special training to identify a full range of skin disorders, including inverse psoriasis. Dr. Hines will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a visual examination of your skin.
Signs of nail damage and evidence of plaque psoriasis on the scalp or other parts of the body in addition to evaluating the lesions helps form an accurate diagnosis. A family history of psoriasis may also hold clues to support the diagnosis.
If there is any question, Dr. Hines may perform a skin biopsy. Psoriatic tissue, in contrast to normal tissue, is thick and has compressed cells.
Dr. Hines will consider all potential causes to ensure that you receive the most appropriate care plan.
Treating inverse psoriasis
There are several treatment and management options for inverse psoriasis. Your treatment plan may include:
- Oral medications
- Moisturizers
- Stress control
- Phototherapy
- Topical corticosteroids
- Topical or oral retinoids
- Injectable medications (Humira and Remicade)
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (Methotrexate and cyclosporine)
Additionally, you may need topical antifungal medication to treat secondary infections that commonly occur in compromised skin folds.
If you’re dealing with signs and symptoms of inverse psoriasis or any other skin abnormality, a skin evaluation is crucial to identify the problem. To schedule a visit with Dr. Hines, call our Attleboro office where a knowledgeable team member is ready to assist you in setting up an appointment.
Prospective and existing patients also have the option to send a message to Dr. Hines and the team conveniently from our website.
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