Similar But Different: Guide to Psoriasis and Eczema

When we look at skin issues, sometimes they seem to overlap. This "Similar But Different: Guide to Psoriasis and Eczema" is my attempt to sort it out. I’ve written about my skin issue family tree, mostly regarding my granddaughter’s eczema. My little sis has always had what we called psoriasis, but she also has psoriatic arthritis. My earliest memories of a dermatologist's office were going with grandma to get her psoriasis checked. I’ll admit that those two skin issues can be confusing sometimes. Let’s dive in.

What causes eczema and psoriasis?

Psoriasis: The exact cause of psoriasis is still unknown. However, there are risk factors that can make a person more likely to develop the disease, such as having a family history.

Eczema: Eczema has a variety of causes, and grandma considered ours to run in the family. Causes other than a genetic predisposition include a dysfunction of the skin barrier, environmental factors, and a dysfunction in the immune system.¹ Though they are not causes of eczema, food or skin allergies can trigger a flare.

Eczema-like rashes: Some consider certain bacteria or even responses to medications to be the cause of eczema-like rashes.

What is eczema and psoriasis?

Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a condition where a person has an overactive immune system. The unnecessary inflammation caused by the overactive immune system triggers their body to make extra skin cells. They can pile up and create a thick and bumpy texture on your skin, called plaques. It can also cause redness and itching that have been compared to a stinging sensation.

Eczema: Eczema rashes are typically red and itchy patches on the skin, similar to psoriasis. Eczema is different though because there is no new skin growth leading to the creation of plaques. Each flare-up can act differently depending on where it is on the body and what triggered it. On the scalp, it can look like dandruff. It can also be small liquid-filled blisters or bumps. It’s considered contact dermatitis if it only appears when exposed to a substance that is an allergen or irritant. All types of eczema, however, are known for creating an irritating, persistent itch.

It's not ringworm

Grandma had a round circle on her lower leg called discoid eczema. Her doctor gave her creams and occasional injections. It came and went for many years.

Where does eczema and psoriasis occur?

Psoriasis: Psoriasis can show up everywhere but is mostly seen on elbows, knees, and scalp. My sis has it in those places, but it also affects her facial skin and forehead. She also has systemic plaque psoriasis and uses a prescription for it.

Eczema: Eczema isn’t picky and really shows up everywhere. It does appear in specific areas of the body at certain ages though. I had it on the sides of my eyes while taking medication for liver disease. It loves the creases of our body. Inside the elbow, behind the knees, and the folds of the neck are favorite spots for my granddaughter. Hubby gets his behind his ear of all places.

How are eczema and psoriasis treated?

Psoriasis: Psoriasis is often treated with home remedies. You can find everything from coal tar shampoo to ointments and steroid creams. Doctors can also offer a variety of prescriptions or ultraviolet light therapy.

Eczema: Eczema can be treated by a dermatologist, or with help from your primary care medical provider. There are medications that can be used to treat the symptoms of eczema as well as home remedies. You can also try at-home care by avoiding allergens and reducing stress in addition to medical care.

These skin issues are from similar families but have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. This is where you have to be your own guide with psoriasis and eczema. I hope this helps you looking at your skin in an effect to find soothing relief.