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ERYTHRODERMIC
PSORIASIS
Erythrodermic
psoriasis appears on the skin as a widespread reddening and exfoliation
of fine scales, often accompanied by severe itching and pain. Swelling
may also develop. Erythrodermic psoriasis is a particularly inflammatory
form of psoriasis that often affects most of the body surface. It most
commonly appears on people who have unstable plaque psoriasis, where
lesions are not clearly defined.b
This is a rare condition in which the rash is spread over large sections
of the body. The skin is very inflamed which affects its ability to
function properly. It does not retain fluid as normal, which results in
the patient feeling constantly thirsty and being dehydrated. It also
impairs the skin's performance in maintaining body temperature control
so the sufferer may lose heat more easily and be more susceptible to
hypothermia. This is also a more serious form of the condition and one
that needs expert medical management.
Erythrodermic psoriasis may occur in association with von Zumbusch pustular
psoriasis. Periodic, widespread, fiery redness of the skin and the shedding
of scales in sheets, rather than smaller flakes characterize Erythrodermic
psoriasis. Severe itching and pain, heart rate increase, and fluctuating
body temperature often accompany the reddening and shedding of the skin.
Erythrodermic psoriasis causes protein and fluid loss that can lead to severe
illness. The condition may also bring on infection, pneumonia and congestive
heart failure.
Erythrodermic psoriasis is a particularly inflammatory form of psoriasis
that often affects most of the body surface. It is the least common form
of the disease. It most commonly appears on people who have unstable
plaque psoriasis, where lesions are not clearly defined. However, in some cases
erythrodermic psoriasis is the first manifestation of psoriasis, even in children.
Individuals with this type of psoriasis may experience chills and low-grade fever,
and may be rather uncomfortable
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