Psoriasis and eczema are two common childhood ailments of the skin. These conditions both lead to rashes, but each condition has its own distinct appearance and cause.
Distinction
Psoriasis and eczema are two distinct conditions, although both involve the immune system reacting with the skin. Although it is technically possible for a child to have both eczema and psoriasis, the American Academy of Dermatology says that this is extremely unlikely because the immune disorder is different for both diseases.
Eczema
Eczema, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases says, is marked by areas of dry and itchy skin that often occur on the backs of the elbows and knees, hands and feet. This condition is also known as atopic dermatitis and is thought to be caused by exposure to irritants and allergens.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an auto-immune condition in which the immune system attacks skin cells. This causes the skin cells to rapidly divide and grow, resulting in the appearance of raised red sections of the skin which are covered in silvery scales, the Patient Education Institute says. Psoriasis can also result in pitting of the fingernails.
