Plaque psoriasis is a type of psoriasis characterized by itchy, thick or raised patches of skin that are red and covered with silvery scales. When this type of psoriasis affects the skin on the head, it's called scalp psoriasis. This disease occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys skin cells. PsoriasisNet by the American Academy of Dermatology reports that about half of all psoriasis patients will have at least one instance of scalp psoriasis.
Signs
Due to continuous shedding of skin cells in scalp psoriasis, dandruff-like flakes are typically observed in the scalp. Scalp psoriasis causes a silvery sheen on the scalp, as well as dry scales. Itching is another symptom of scalp psoriasis. The itching could be mild or so severe that it interferes with daily activities and even sleep. Bleeding and temporary hair loss can also occur in scalp psoriasis due to scratching.
Similar Conditions
Seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis share similar symptoms and thus are difficult to differentiate. In seborrheic dermatitis, the scalp is covered by yellow or white scales and a thick crust that could be removed. In scalp psoriasis, the scalp has white scales and crusts that bleed when scraped off. Also, a patient who has scalp psoriasis may have symptoms of psoriasis in other body parts while seborrheic dermatitis is limited to the scalp only.
Treatment
Scalp psoriasis can be mild or severe. In the mild form, the scalp has fine scales, while in the severe form, it is covered with thick crusty plaques. Products such as shampoos that contain coal tar and salicyclic acid are used to treat mild forms of scalp psoriasis. The scalp should be shampooed gently to avoid worsening of symptoms that can occur with rubbing and scratching the scalp. The severe form of this condition can be treated with topical medicines like anthralin and oral or injection medicines such as cyclosporine. Phototherapy such as laser therapy can also be used to treat scalp psoriasis.
Effects of Treatment
The Mayo Clinic explains that coal tar is the oldest psoriasis treatment. It works by reducing scales, inflammation and itching in psoriasis. Psoriasis products that contain salicyclic acid work by stimulating and peeling off of dead cells. This reduces the amount of scales. Both products are found in shampoos which can be used for scalp psoriasis. Medicines that are taken by injection or by mouth may treat psoriasis by suppressing the immune system, reducing skin cell production or by decreasing inflammation. Phototherapy treatment such as ultraviolet B phototherapy can help clear away scalp psoriasis temporarily.
Considerations
Mild cases of scalp psoriasis may be covered by hair. Charles Camisa, author of "Handbook of Psoriasis," suggests that patients with severe cases may experience, discomfort, embarrassment and emotional distress.
