Psoriasis

This inflammatory skin condition is most likely if there’s a family history (if one parent suffers from psoriasis, their child has a 15 percent chance of experiencing it; with both parents, the child has a 75 percent chance), but it’s less common than eczema.

It occurs when the normal skin shedding cycle (typically skins cells grow and shed in around 28 days) speeds up to four or five days, resulting in a build-up of skin that forms reddish, scaly lesions, usually on the scalp, torso, limbs, elbows and knees. The patches can be itchy and sore, and sometimes a child’s nails can become affected and grow thicker, with tiny pits in the surface. Childhood psoriasis is often triggered by injury, stress or illness – for example, strep throat or a cold. Babies and toddlers are less likely to suffer from psoriasis than older children –if your baby has a rash it’s likely to be cradle cap ordiaper rash; while toddlers and preschoolers may actually have ringworm or eczema.

Treatment

Your pediatrician may refer you to a dermatologist for a diagnosis. If the condition is mild, a bland ointment to moisturize the skin may be prescribed; for more severe conditions, steroid creams may be used. In very severe cases a UV light therapy may be prescribed.

How to help your child with psoriasis?

Psoriasis isn’t a serious condition and causes no harm to your child, but it can be upsetting for children who suffer from it because it can be unsightly. The best thing you can do is educate your child about psoriasis so that he fully understands the condition. Explain that other children can’t catch it from him and reassure him that it isn’t a serious condition, and that many people suffer from it. Unfortunately there’s no cure for psoriasis but it often goes into remission for long periods of time.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

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