Guttate psoriasis usually affects children and young adults. It often shows up after a sore throat, with many small, red, drop-like, scaly spots appearing on the skin. It often clears up by itself in weeks or a few months. In some people, the arthritis is worse when the skin is very involved. Sometimes the arthritis improves when the condition of the patient's skin improves.
Dermatologists diagnose psoriasis by examining the skin, nails, and scalp.
If the diagnosis is in doubt, a skin biopsy may be helpful. The goal is to reduce inflammation and to control shedding of the skin. Moisturizing creams and lotions loosen scales and help control itching. Special diets have not been successful in treating psoriasis, except in isolated cases. Treatment is based on a patient's health, age, lifestyle, and the severity of the psoriasis.