Triggers and Types of Psoriasis

The ins and outs of psoriasis

Triggers

Though the real cause of psoriasis is unknown, most doctors agree that the immune system and genetics play a major role in its development. Besides genetics, certain triggers can also contribute to psoriasis, including:
  • Stress
  • Injury to the skin, such as vaccinations, sunburns, and scratches
  • Medications
    • Lithium—used for treating psychiatric disorders
    • Antimalarials—used to prevent malaria
    • Beta-blockers—used to treat high blood pressure
    • Quinidine—used to treat heart conditions
    • Indomethacin—used to treat arthritis
  • Allergies, diet and weather

Types

Psoriasis comes in varying forms, each with its own symptoms. Only one condition type will appear at a time. However, after that type of psoriasis has cleared, triggers can cause another type to develop.

The five types of psoriasis are:
  • Plaque—the most common form of the disease, affecting 80% of those who have psoriasis. Appears as raised, inflamed, red lesions covered by a silvery white scale on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back.
  • Guttate—develops in children or young adults. Appears as small, red, individual spots on the trunk and limbs.
  • Inverse—more troublesome in overweight people and those with deep skin folds. Appears as bright red, smooth and shiny lesions on the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and in other skin folds around the genitals and buttocks.
  • Pustular—primarily develops in adults. Appears as white blisters of noninfectious pus surrounded by red skin on the hands and feet, or sometimes the entire body.
  • Erythrodermic—may result in serious illness if not treated by a doctor. Appears as periodic, widespread, fiery redness of the skin and the shedding of scales in sheets, rather than smaller flakes across most of the body. Severe itching and pain, heart rate increase, and fluctuating body temperature accompany the reddening and shedding.
VECTICAL® OINTMENT Important Safety Information
Vectical® Ointment is a topical treatment for mild to moderate plaque psoriasis in adults, 18 years and older. When using Vectical®, you may experience skin discomfort and itching. Because Vectical® may affect how your body regulates calcium, tell your doctor if you suffer from kidney disease or renal insufficiency. Also, tell your doctor if you are taking medications like diuretics, calcium supplements or oral vitamin D, or if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or nursing. It is important to avoid excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight when using the ointment. If you experience severe irritation when using Vectical® discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately. Avoid contact with eyes, lips and face. Do not use more than 200 grams (2 tubes) per week.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088).
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VECTICAL® OINTMENT Important Safety Information
Vectical® Ointment is a topical treatment for mild to moderate plaque psoriasis in adults, 18 years and older. When using Vectical®, you may experience skin discomfort and itching. Because Vectical® may affect how your body regulates calcium, tell your doctor if you suffer from kidney disease or renal insufficiency. Also, tell your doctor if you are taking medications like diuretics, calcium supplements or oral vitamin D, or if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or nursing. It is important to avoid excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight when using the ointment. If you experience severe irritation when using Vectical® discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately. Avoid contact with eyes, lips and face. Do not use more than 200 grams (2 tubes) per week.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088).