Both psoriasis and eczema are chronic skin disorders marked by itching, redness, and inflammation.

Atopic dermatitis, often known as eczema, is a chronic skin illness marked by redness, itching, swelling, and occasionally the development of tiny blisters or dry, scaly patches on the skin. It’s a widespread disorder that frequently begins in childhood and can last into adulthood. Since eczema is not contagious, it cannot be passed from one person to another.

Eczema is characterized by skin inflammation, which can produce redness, swelling, and discomfort. Itching is one of the most common symptoms of eczema, and it can lead to scratching. Scratching can aggravate the skin and make the issue worse.

The skin affected by this condition may become dry, rough, and scaly. Skin might fracture and even bleed in severe situations. Some types of eczema can cause the formation of tiny blisters that ooze or crust over. Eczema commonly arises on folds or creases on the body, such as the inner elbows, backs of knees, neck, wrists, and ankles. It can also have an impact on the face and other parts of the body.

Psoriasis is a persistent autoimmune skin illness characterized by a fast accumulation of skin cells on the skin’s surface, resulting in raised, red, scaly areas. It is a non-contagious disorder with varying degrees of severity that can affect various regions of the body. Psoriasis is frequently chronic and necessitates continual treatment.

In psoriasis, over several weeks, skin cells shed and are replaced by new ones in normal skin. This process is accelerated in psoriasis, causing cells to amass on the skin’s surface. During psoriasis plaques are elevated spots that are often red, inflammatory, and coated in silvery-white scales. 

The skin beneath the scales might become inflamed and red. Psoriasis plaques can be irritating, and scratching can cause further irritation and worsen the condition. Psoriasis is most typically found on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp, although it can arise anywhere on the body, including the nails and joints.

Psoriasis is classified into numerous kinds, the most common of which are plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis (little red spots), inverse psoriasis (in skinfolds), pustular psoriasis (with pus-filled blisters), and erythrodermic psoriasis (affecting huge areas of skin).

Also  Read: Structure of skin A Creature of Epidermis, Dermis and Hypodermis

No.

Aspect

Eczema

Psoriasis

1

Nature

Inflammatory skin condition

Chronic autoimmune skin disorder

2

Cause

Genetic and environmental factors

Immune system dysfunction

3

Triggers

Allergens, irritants, stress, weather

Infections, stress, trauma, medications

4

Appearance

Red, inflamed patches, sometimes with blisters

Raised, scaly, silvery, thick patches

5

Itching

Intense itching often accompanies

Itching can be present but not as severe

6

Age of Onset

Often begins in infancy or childhood

Usually develops in adulthood

7

Affected Areas

Commonly found in joint areas, creases

Elbows, knees, scalp, lower back

8

Rash Distribution

Symmetrical distribution less common

Often appears bilaterally (symmetrical)

9

Lesion Evolution

May weep, crust, and scale

Thick scales, may crack and bleed

10

Flare-Ups

Triggers can cause sudden flares

Flares may occur periodically

11

Chronicity

Chronic condition with periods of remission

Chronic, often persistent

12

Lesion Color

Red, brownish-gray

Silvery-white, sometimes red

13

Severity

Variable, mild to severe

Mild to severe, can impact daily life

14

Infections

Prone to bacterial and viral infections

Susceptible to skin infections

15

Common Types

Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema

Plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, pustular psoriasis

16

Treatment Approach

Emphasis on moisturization and trigger avoidance

Topical treatments, light therapy, systemic medications

17

Age Group

Common in children and adults

More common in adults, but can start at any age

18

Immunology

Immune system involved but not autoimmune

Immune system triggers inflammation

19

Allergies

Common in people with allergies

Not directly linked to allergies

20

Family History

Often has a family history

Genetic predisposition may play a role

21

Stress Impact

Stress can exacerbate symptoms

Stress can trigger or worsen symptoms

22

Response to Treatment

Can be variable, responds to moisturization

Can be resistant to treatment

23

Fluctuating Symptoms

Symptoms may fluctuate in severity

Symptoms may worsen and improve

24

Treatment Goals

Manage symptoms, prevent flares

Reduce inflammation, slow skin cell growth

25

Lesion Size

Varies in size and shape

Typically larger and more defined lesions

26

Lesion Thickness

Often thinner lesions

Typically thicker, raised lesions

27

Joint Involvement

Uncommon

Possible, leading to psoriatic arthritis

28

Histological Changes

Epidermal thickening, blisters may form

Epidermal thickening, immune cell infiltration

29

Stages of Development

Can progress through different stages

Lesions often in similar developmental stage

30

Associated Conditions

Asthma, hay fever, allergies

Psoriatic arthritis, metabolic syndrome, others

31

Mental Health Impact

May impact mental health due to appearance

May cause psychological distress

32

Prevalence

Highly prevalent, affects many people

Lower prevalence, but still significant

Also Read: Human Skin: Definition, Layers, Types, & Diseases

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q1. Are eczema and psoriasis contagious?

Neither eczema nor psoriasis are contagious. Eczema cannot be transmitted from person to person via direct contact. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder and  it can’t be transmitted through direct contact

Q2. What are the most prevalent causes of eczema flare-ups?

Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander), irritants (harsh soaps, detergents), stress, temperature fluctuations, and specific materials are all common causes.

Q3. Can psoriasis affect portions of the body other than the skin?

Yes, psoriasis can damage the nails (psoriatic nail alterations) and the joints (psoriatic arthritis), causing joint discomfort and inflammation.

Q4. Can kids get eczema or psoriasis?

Both disorders can occur in children. Eczema typically begins in childhood, although psoriasis can appear at any age.

Q5. Do I need to see a dermatologist about my eczema or psoriasis?

Yes, it is necessary to contact a dermatologist for correct diagnosis, treatment planning, and continuous management of eczema or psoriasis.

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