Symptoms of psoriasis

An experienced professional can diagnose psoriasis during a physical examination. There are no tests to specifically detect psoriasis. Psoriasis forms characteristic skin lesions that include:

• White or silver colored scales
• Scales are loosely attached to thickened or raised, red patches of skin
• Commonly affected areas include elbows, knees, scalp, or nails
• Scratching lesions may cause multiple spots of bleeding
• Arthritis-like joint symptoms including aching, swelling, or stiffness
• Itching or soreness
• Flare-ups typically appear spontaneously and resolve within a few weeks