When dealing with eczema vs. psoriasis there can be a lot of confusion as both types of skin diseases can look similar and seem to have many of the same 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. Determining the type of skin disease in the case of eczema vs. psoriasis as quickly as possible is important so that correct treatment can be carried out.

Skin lesions caused by psoriasis are usually thick, raised, red, and the skin is usually scaly in appearance; psoriasis lesions are also dry. Raised patches of reddish skin on the other hand indentify psoriasis; a white or silvery layer usually covers these patches and the knees, elbows, scalp and lower back are most commonly affected. Eczema of the skin is usually caused by environmental factors such as exposure to chemicals, excessive hand washing, and in some cases food allergies. The areas that are affected by skin lesions can also help to determine if a person is suffering from eczema or psoriasis.

Another difference is the presence of environmental factors that occur in eczema vs. psoriasis; eczema is often caused by contact with certain chemicals, skin products, or allergies.  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. The course of treatment of management for both diseases is also different; in the case of eczema vs. psoriasis there is no cur for eczema. It can be confusing for a dermatologist when the rash appears on the hands and feet, though eczema appears more commonly on the ankles; however both skin diseases can occur on the scalp.

One of the distinctions when looking at a case of eczema vs. psoriasis is the condition of a person’s nails; nail pitting is a frequent symptom of psoriasis that does not occur in eczema. Phototherapy is another treatment that may be used to help with psoriasis, narrowband UVB is thought to be the most helpful treatment. Photochemotherapy may be used also when treating psoriasis, in this instance oral and topical application of psoralen and contact with ultraviolet A light is used.  A dermatologist will be able to help determine the diagnosis, though a skin biopsy may help to further confirm an initial diagnosis of either eczema or psoriasis. 

Tags: eczema vs psoriasis, eczema