There are many reasons someone may develop dry and red patches on their face or body. If these symptoms are accompanied by the growth of scaly patches, the problem may be a chronic skin condition known as psoriasis.
Peterson Pierre regularly sees patients who think they are having an allergic reaction, but who are actually showing signs of an autoimmune disorder that can impact anyone of any age. Click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Peterson Pierre to discuss help for psoriasis in Thousand Oaks. You can also call Pierre Skin Care Institute at or send an message online. These plaques are more common on specific areas such as the scalp, knees, and elbows, but they can develop anywhere on the body.
The condition can be incredibly uncomfortable, resulting in itching, stinging, and burning sensations. Scratching may not alleviate these sensationsβand can, in fact, make the problem worse by causing further irritation, bleeding, and infection.
While psoriasis can manifest at any time, it commonly develops in people between the ages of 15 and Infant psoriasis is rare, but up to 15 percent of patients with the condition saw symptoms start before the age of Peterson Pierre can diagnose psoriasis by examining scaly patches closely. He may biopsy the tissue to check it for thickness and inflammation, but blood draws or other tests are not necessary. The diagnostic process can also include a complete medical history, including questions about your family.
Genetics seem to play some role in psoriasis, since about a third of all patients with the disease also have a family member who has symptoms.
