How is psoriasis different from eczema?
In psoriasis, immune cells overproduce IL-23 and IL-17, so skin cells turn over in days instead of a month (Griffiths et al., 2021). The result is sharply bordered, thick plaques with silvery scale on elbows, knees and scalp. Eczema tends to appear in skin folds with blurrier edges and more intense itch.
How is psoriasis treated?
Mild cases use steroid or vitamin D creams; widespread disease may need phototherapy or oral drugs; moderate-to-severe psoriasis often clears dramatically with IL-17 or IL-23 biologics. Up to 30% of patients develop psoriatic arthritis, so joint pain or swollen fingers deserve a rheumatology visit (compare rheumatoid arthritis). Obesity, smoking and alcohol make it worse.
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
FAQ
- Is psoriasis contagious?
- No—it's an immune condition, not an infection.
- Can it be cured?
- There's no cure, but many people achieve long stretches of clear skin with treatment.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-25
References
- Griffiths, C. E. M., et al. (2021). Psoriasis. The Lancet, 397(10281), 1301–1315.