Psoriasis and eczema refer to chronic skin conditions. Each has the potential to create discomfort and affect the quality of one’s life. While each has some similarities, they are distinct conditions with differing symptoms, causes, and treatments. Dr. Adam Pritzker of Savannah Dermatology Clinic - serving greater Savannah, GA, offers the following guidance to help you understand the differences and treatment options for psoriasis and eczema.

Understanding the Difference Between Psoriasis & Eczema

• Psoriasis refers to a chronic autoimmune condition. Its rapid skin cell turnover causes thick, red, scaly skin patches. Psoriatic arthritis can also impact the joints.
• Eczema references an inflammatory skin condition that creates chronic dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Eczema is often connected to asthma and allergies. 

Both skin issues are typically diagnosed with a physical examination and medical history. Dermatologists like Dr. Pritzker may take a skin biopsy (or perform allergy tests) to determine the diagnosis.

The Differing Psoriasis & Eczema Symptoms

The symptoms of psoriasis, which may often be found on the scalp, knees, elbows, lower back and more, include - 

• Red patches of skin are typically characterized by thick, silvery scales that may be itchy to very itchy.
• Potentially, psoriasis may cause changes to one’s nails as well as joint pain.  

The symptoms of eczema, on the other hand, are commonly found on the neck/face, behind one’s knees, hands/feet, and the inside of elbows, including the following -

• Dry, red, and inflamed patches that may ooze/crust over from scratching – further aggravating symptoms. Due to eczema’s itchiness, this becomes quite challenging.
• Potentially, eczema may create thick skin because of chronic scratching.

The Different Causes of Psoriasis & Eczema

As noted above, psoriasis is an autoimmune condition in which one’s immune system erroneously attacks the body’s healthy skin cells. Other factors include a family history as well various common triggers like – 

• Stress
• Infections
• Injuries to skin
• Certain meds and 
• Environmental Factors (i.e., cold weather, etc.).

The cause of eczema is an overactive immune system responding to allergens/irritants. Like psoriasis, a family history (of eczema/asthma/allergies) typically increases one’s odds of the condition. Common eczema triggers include –

• Allergens (pollen, dander)
• Irritants (detergents, soaps)
• Extreme temperatures, 
• Stress, and 
• Changes to hormone levels.

Treatment Options 

Psoriasis and eczema treatment include the following-

• Topicals- 
  • Psoriasis – meds like corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, topical retinoids, etc.
• Eczema - moisturizers to hydrate and protect the skin, as well as meds like corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors.
• Systemic Medications- 
  • Psoriasis -for moderate/severe cases, prescription oral/injectables that suppress the immune system (e.g., methotrexate, biologics) may be suggested.
  • Eczema –antihistamines can help with itchiness -particularly during sleep hours.
• Phototherapy- 
  • Psoriasis -UV light can help reduce psoriatic symptoms.
  • Eczema - in certain instances, light therapy can be beneficial for eczema.
• Lifestyle Modifications- 
  • Psoriasis- 
    • Moisturize regularly.
    • Avoid triggers and.
    • Manage stress to reduce flare-ups.
  • Eczema- 
    • Identify and avoid triggers.
    • Maintain proper skin care hygiene.
    • Use mild soap and detergents to better manage eczema symptoms.

Contact a Savannah, GA, Dermatologist Near You 

While eczema and psoriasis are chronic skin conditions that can profoundly influence one’s quality of life, each has distinctive characteristics, causes, and treatment options. For more information, contact Dr. Pritzker or a staff member of Savannah Dermatology Clinic at 912-352-8974.