Distinguishing Eczema vs. Psoriasis

Posted on May 30, 2010
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Eczema and psoriasis are both chronic skin diseases that can be easily confused by the layperson, however a dermatologist will usually be able to tell the two apart just from looking at the symptoms.  However upon closer examination these diseases are very different and are caused by different things, need different treatments, and are distributed differently depending on the type of skin disease.  While studies have shown that both eczema and psoriasis seem to have a genetic relation, both have entirely triggers and causes.  It is important to know the difference so that the right type of treatment can be administered and the skin disease can be controlled properly.

 Skin lesions caused by psoriasis are usually thick, raised, red, and the skin is usually scaly in appearance; psoriasis lesions are also dry.  Eczema is most associated with skin lesions that are itchy, red, and that can sometimes swell.  In some chronic cases of eczema the skin lesions can look more like psoriasis lesions; however eczema lesions will have the telltale sign of oozing.  Another key difference is the age distribution of eczema vs. psoriasis; eczema typically occurs in children while psoriasis does not appear till adulthood.

When establishing wither a person is suffering from eczema vs. psoriasis the most distinguishing factor is if the skin lesions appear on the outer parts of the hands and knees or the inner parts of the hands and knees.  Avoiding certain chemicals, soaps, and other environmental factors such as constant hand washing is also prescribed to those suffering from eczema to prevent the diseases from getting worse.  On the other hand skin lesions that appear on the inner arm and the back of the knees are usually symptomatic of eczema.  Eczema can however be managed and controlled with the use of topical ointments and treatments; it is also advisable to avoid contact with skin irritants to prevent further outbreaks.

 In the case of psoriasis there are some bath solutions, medicated creams, and ointments that may be used for treatment.  Some treatments will work for both eczema and psoriasis, though this is not always the case as some cases of either disease need specific treatments.  It is important to avoid scratching when dealing with both diseases as broken skin can lead to the possibility of bacterial infection.  The type of treatment for both diseases will be determined by the severity of the case and how early treatment is administered by a dermatologist.

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