What is Guttate Psoriasis?

Guttate psoriasis is a type of psoriasis characterized by small red dots (or drops) of psoriasis. Guttate comes from the Latin word gutta meaning "drop."

This type of psoriasis often appears on the trunk, arms and legs. The lesions may have some scale.

Guttate psoriasis frequently appears suddenly following a streptococcal infection or viral upper respiratory infections. There are also other events that can precipitate an attack of guttate psoriasis: tonsillitis, a cold, chicken pox, immunizations, physical trauma, psychological stress, illness, and the administration of anti-malarial drugs.

Guttate psoriasis is many small patches of psoriasis, all over the body, and often happens after a throat infection. Guttate Psoriasis most often affects children and young adults. It appears as small, red bumps-the size of drops of water-on the skin. It usually appears suddenly, often several weeks after an infection such as strep throat.

The Many Types Of Psoriasis

Psoriasis can occur in several different forms. All types of psoriasis are caused when the infection-fighting white blood cells, called T-cells, malfunction. Under normal circumstances, T-cells fight against foreign invaders. However, in individuals with psoriasis, the T-cells actually attack the skin. The rash of psoriasis results from a combination of damage to the skin by T-cells, inflammation in the skin, and overproduction of new skin cells. To effectively treat your psoriasis, you must first identify the type of psoriasis you have.