What does psoriasis look like on african american skin?

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Psoriasis can appear as dark, thick patches or small scaly bumps on African American skin, and can be mistaken for other skin conditions such as eczema or ringworm.

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Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the skin and causes red, itchy, and scaly patches. While the condition can affect people of all skin types and tones, psoriasis on African American skin can present differently than on other skin tones.

According to Dr. Andrew Alexis, Director of the Skin of Color Center at Mount Sinai Hospital, psoriasis can appear as “dark brown, purple, or gray, flaky thick patches” on African American skin. These patches can be mistaken for other skin conditions such as eczema or ringworm, leading to misdiagnosis and incorrect treatment.

Despite the similarities in appearance, there are also some unique characteristics of psoriasis on African American skin. For example, African Americans may experience less scaling and more discoloration, with patches appearing darker than the surrounding skin. Additionally, scarring and changes in pigmentation may be more common in people of color with psoriasis.

To better understand the differences in psoriasis on different skin tones, a recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology analyzed the genetic makeup of psoriasis lesions from African American and Caucasian patients. The researchers found that certain genetic variations were more common in African American patients, which may contribute to the differences in how psoriasis presents on darker skin tones.

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In terms of treatment, it is important for healthcare providers to properly diagnose psoriasis on African American skin and consider potential cultural and genetic factors that may affect treatment. Dr. Michelle Henry, a dermatologist in New York City, emphasizes the importance of culturally competent care in treating skin conditions in people of color: “The conversation begins with understanding that we might not all look the same, but we know the basics. We need to approach each case with fresh eyes.”

As writer Maya Angelou once said, “In diversity there is beauty, and there is strength.” Understanding the diversity of psoriasis and how it can present on different skin tones is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

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Dermatologists discuss the specific challenges of diagnosing and treating psoriasis in patients with skin of color, highlighting the absence of redness as a distinguishing factor and the importance of looking for other symptoms such as scaling, thickness, and itching. Effective treatment can be challenging due to the thicker nature of psoriasis in patients with skin of color, and dermatologists suggest a lower biopsy threshold to distinguish from other skin disorders. Psoriasis can lead to joint pain and psoriatic arthritis and may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, highlighting the importance of proper treatment. Dermatologists provide tips on incorporating psoriasis medication into patients’ hair care routines and emphasize the continued role of phototherapy and narrowband UVB light therapy, while warning of the potential risks of hyperpigmentation. Patients are urged to seek out dermatologists experienced with treating skin of color and to not give up if multiple medications are necessary.

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Psoriasis on black skin typically appears as dark patches with gray scales. These patches may be brown, purple, or darker than the surrounding skin. Psoriasis lesions tend to be thick and crusty, and they often form on the scalp, elbows, knees, and back.

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Fact: People with psoriasis may be more at risk of developing Parkinson’s disease because of the inflammation in the neuronal tissue. Chronic kidney disease appears to be more common among people with psoriasis.

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How do you treat psoriasis in dark skin?

The reply will be: Treating Psoriasis in Darker Skin
Most people start with ointments or creams you spread on your skin. If your psoriasis is more serious, you can use medications you take by mouth or as a shot. You might also try UV light therapy (phototherapy).

What fungal skin infection looks like psoriasis?

In reply to that: Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection that causes small, red, sometimes scaly marks on the skin. People may confuse tinea versicolor with guttate psoriasis, which produces similar small red marks. Tinea versicolor can also cause patches of light and dark skin, and people can confuse it with vitiligo.

What do psoriasis spots look like?

Patches of thick raised skin covered with silvery scale form. These patches usually appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, or lower back — but they can develop anywhere on the skin.

What does the beginning stages of psoriasis look like?

Response to this: When psoriasis starts, you may see a few red bumps on your skin if you have lighter skin. These may get larger and thicker and get scales on top. The patches may join together and cover large parts of your body. Your rash can be red, itchy, and uncomfortable, and it may bleed easily if you rub or pick it.