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What is Inverse Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition. The disease is characterised by the rapid build-up of skin cells, causing inflammation and scaling on the skin’s surface.

Inverse Psoriasis is an uncommon type of Psoriasis. It causes bright red, shiny lesions that appear in skin folds, such as the armpits, groin area, and under the breasts. Inverse Psoriasis tends to be limited to smaller patches of skin.

Causes

Doctors are unclear as to the exact underlying cause of Inverse Psoriasis. However, the two general factors are:
•   Immune System: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition. Autoimmune conditions are the result of the body attacking itself. In the case of Inverse Psoriasis, white blood cells known as T cells mistakenly attack the skin cells. This causes the skin cell production process to go into overdrive and develop too quickly.
•   Genetics: Some people inherit genes that make them more likely to develop Inverse Psoriasis. If you have an immediate family member with the skin condition, the risk for developing Inverse Psoriasis is higher.

Inverse Psoriasis can be triggered by:
•   Moisture (in the form of sweating) and friction
•   Excess body weight producing deeper skin folds
•   Fungal infections

Symptoms

Inverse Psoriasis symptoms differ from person to person and depend on the severity of disease you have. Common symptoms of Inverse Psoriasis include:
•   Red, inflamed skin
•   Shiny smooth rash
•   Irritation and itching
•   Dry skin that may crack and bleed

Diagnosis & Treatment

Inverse Psoriasis is diagnosed by a Doctor using a physical examination. If the symptoms are unclear, or if your doctor wants to confirm their suspected diagnosis, they may conduct a biopsy.

There is currently no known cure for Inverse Psoriasis. Treatments aim to reduce inflammation and lesions, slow the growth of skin cells. Psoriasis treatments fall into three main categories:
•   Topical treatments
•   Systemic medications
•   Light therapy using ultraviolet (UV) or natural light

Additional Information

Inverse Psoriasis isn’t contagious. Touching a Psoriatic lesion on another person won’t cause you to develop the condition.

Also see: Psoriasis