Plaque Psoriasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Plaque Psoriasis?
A dermatologist, a doctor who treats skin, hair, and nails, usually treats plaque psoriasis. A rheumatologist, a doctor who treats joint diseases, may also help if you have psoriatic arthritis. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is plaque psoriasis?
Plaque psoriasis is the most common type. It appears as raised, red patches of skin covered by silvery-white scales. Psoriasis is a long-lasting disease in which the immune system becomes overactive. This makes skin cells multiply too quickly.
Normal skin cells rise to the surface about once a month. With psoriasis, this takes 7 to 14 days on average. Dead skin cells then build up as scales. Psoriasis is not contagious. It does not spread to other people.
Symptoms
Symptoms differ from person to person. Common ones are:
- Patches of thick, red skin with silvery-white scales that itch or burn.
- Patches most often seen on the elbows, knees, and middle of the body. They can appear anywhere, including on the scalp, palms, and soles of the feet.
Symptoms can come and go. Times when they get worse are called flares. Some people also have psoriatic arthritis, which can cause stiff, swollen, or painful joints. Untreated psoriatic arthritis can lead to damage that cannot be undone.
Causes and who gets it
Scientists do not fully understand what causes the disease. They know it involves a mix of genes and things in the environment.
Things that may raise the chance of getting it include infections, especially strep and HIV infections, certain medicines, smoking, and obesity. Flares can be set off by infections, dry air or dry skin, skin injuries, some medicines, stress, too little sunlight, and sunburn.
Anyone can get psoriasis. It is more common in adults than in children, and it affects men and women equally.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor usually examines your skin, scalp, and nails for signs of it. Your provider can usually diagnose it by looking at your skin.
Other skin conditions can look like psoriasis. To rule them out, the doctor may take a small skin sample to look at under a microscope. This is called a skin biopsy.
Treatment
There is currently no cure for psoriasis. Treatments can keep symptoms under control so you can return to daily activities and sleep better. The best treatment depends on the type of psoriasis and how severe it is. It also depends on where it is on your body and the possible side effects of medicines. Mild psoriasis can often be treated with creams or ointments. Moderate and severe psoriasis may need pills, injections, or light treatments.
Treatment options include:
- Creams, ointments, lotions, and foams put on the skin. Those with corticosteroids are commonly used for mild to moderate disease.
- Phototherapy. A doctor shines ultraviolet light on your skin. It is usually used when large areas of skin are affected.
- Body-wide medicines. With moderate to severe psoriasis, your provider will likely suggest medicines that calm the immune system, such as methotrexate or cyclosporine.
- Biologics. These injected medicines block specific immune molecules and help decrease or stop inflammation. They are now more commonly used because they target the causes of psoriasis more specifically.
At home, keep your skin well moisturized. Bathe in lukewarm water and use mild soap with added oils. After bathing, apply heavy moisturizers while your skin is still damp. There is no known way to prevent psoriasis, but avoiding your triggers may help reduce flare-ups.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if you have symptoms of psoriasis or if your skin irritation continues despite treatment. Tell your provider if you have joint pain or fever with your attacks. If you have symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, see your doctor soon. Untreated psoriatic arthritis can lead to damage that cannot be undone.
Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you have a severe outbreak that covers all or most of your body.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care doctor can examine your skin and start an evaluation. They can help you reach a dermatologist.
Common questions
Is plaque psoriasis contagious?
No, it is not contagious, so it does not spread to other people.
Can plaque psoriasis be cured?
No, there is currently no cure. Treatments can keep symptoms under control. It can be a lifelong condition that usually can be controlled with treatment.
Are there other types of psoriasis?
Yes, there are other types, including guttate, pustular, inverse, and erythrodermic psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is the most common kind. Erythrodermic psoriasis is rare but severe, with red, scaly skin over most of the body.
Can psoriasis affect other parts of the body?
Yes, having psoriasis carries the risk of other serious conditions. These include psoriatic arthritis, heart attacks and strokes, and mental health problems such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.
Does stress make plaque psoriasis worse?
Yes, stress can spark flares in some people, as can cold weather, skin injuries, certain medicines, and infections. Joining a support group or seeing a mental health provider can help you learn about coping.
Sources
- NIAMS - Psoriasis Symptoms, Causes, & Risk Factors
- NIAMS - Psoriasis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take
- MedlinePlus - Psoriasis
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
