32 Differences between Eczema and Psoriasis
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 |
|
|
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 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.
