Scalp psoriasis is a manifestation of psoriasis in the scalp. Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition.
Signs and symptoms of psoriasis in general include plaques of thickened, scaly skin that may take on a silver-white appearance. When it affects the scalp, associated symptoms and signs can include
- scaly, red, bumpy patches,
- silvery-white scales,
- dandruff,
- dry scalp,
- hair loss,
- severe itching, and
- burning or soreness of the scalp.
As with other forms of psoriasis, the symptoms tend to come and go over time and may vary in severity.
Causes of scalp psoriasis
An autoimmune reaction (a process in which the body's immune response mistakenly attacks its own tissues) likely causes psoriasis. Environmental influences are also likely involved in the development of psoriasis.
Other scalp psoriasis symptoms and signs
- Burning or Soreness of the Scalp
- Dandruff
- Dry Scalp
- Hair Loss
- Scaly, Red, Bumpy Patches
- Severe Itching
- Silvery-White Scales
Main Article on Scalp Psoriasis Symptoms and Signs
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Examples of Medications for Scalp Psoriasis Symptoms and Signs
- anthralin (for scalp only) - topical, Dritho-Scalp
- anthralin - topical
- betamethasone
- betamethasone/calcipotriene (calcipotriol) - topical, Taclonex
- Biologics (Biologic Drug Class)
- calcipotriene - topical, Dovonex, Sorilux
- clobetasol
- Corticosteroids
- DesOwen (desonide)
- Diprolene Lotion (betamethasone dipropionate)
- Enstilar (calcipotriene and betamethasone dipropionate)
- fluocinonide
- gotu kola
- hydrocortisone
- malathion
- permethrin
- prednisone
- salicylic acid topical
- Sandimmune (cyclosporine)
- Side Effects of Enbrel (etanercept)
- Side Effects of Rayos (prednisone)
- Siliq (brodalumab) Injection
- tazarotene (Tazorac)
- Trianex (triamcinolone acetonide)
- Types of Psoriasis Medications
- urea
- Wynzora (calcipotriene and betamethasone dipropionate)
- Zoryve
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