Eczema vs. Psoriasis
What is the difference between eczema and psoriasis? Both are skin conditions, both are chronic skin diseases, the symptoms of both seem to be similar, and the overall effect is also the same. Here is how to determine whether your skin condition is eczema or psoriasis.
Differences in Causes
Both skin conditions are a result of genetic factors. Psoriasis, however, is more commonly linked to a genetic root than eczema is. Much of eczema has to do with response to environmental factors.
Difference in Symptoms
It is more difficult to distinguish between the effects that psoriasis and eczema have on the skin. More often, eczema produces dry skin that looks like blisters or even acne. Psoriasis favors symptoms that are characterized by rough patches of skin, usually red and itchy. Sometimes the lesions developed by psoriasis are covered with silvery scales. Many people who suffer from psoriasis also have a condition called psoriatic arthritis. While eczema can occur anywhere on the body, psoriasis most commonly affects the outside of the knees, elbows, (flexor joints) and the scalp.
Difference in Subjects
Eczema is most common among children and infants. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is confined nearly exclusively to the adult population. It is true that eczema can afflict anyone at any age, but one can be fairly confident that children do not suffer from psoriasis.
Difference in Treatment
Just as the causes and symptoms vary between psoriasis and eczema, so do the treatments. The major treatment for serious eczema is steroid treatment such us corticosteroids or even immunosuppressants. The treatment for psoriasis may sometimes involve the use of steroid treatment such as retinoids, but the most effective form of treatment is simple topical applicants and even phototherapy.
