Pustular psoriasis is a less common form of psoriasis. It is marked by a red rash on the skin and tiny white pustules (pus filled blisters) that form on the rash. It can occur anyplace on the body and can be accompanied with other symptoms such as headache and fever. In more severe cases a toxic reaction can occur. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the causes.
Medications
Sometimes an allergic reaction to medications can cause pustular psoriasis. Penicillin, chemotherapy drugs and iodine are all examples of medications that can cause this skin condition. In addition, the New Zealand Dermatological Society reports that medications made with salicylic acid, which is used to treat pain and fever, can cause pustular psoriasis. If this is suspected, you should seek medical assistance so that treatment can be applied.
Creams and Ointments
Sometimes creams and ointments can contain irritants and cause an allergic reaction. Pustular psoriasis is one form of rash from this allergic reaction. Someone who experiences this should immediately stop using the cream or ointment that was possibly the cause of the breakout. Seeing your physician or dermatologist can be helpful because they can prescribe corticosteroids or even do light therapies that can help the outbreak heal.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy the body changes and becomes more susceptible to illness or allergies. Pregnancy also raises hormone levels, which can cause illness such as pustular psoriasis. Pustular psoriasis is a serious condition in pregnant women. Researchers M.M. Kura and A.U. Surjushe state in a report in the November-December 2006 issue of the "Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology," that athough it is rare in pregnancy, pustular psoriasis can be devastating to fetal development and cause fetal abnormality and even fetal death. Therefore, getting treated as soon as possible is extremely important.
