Know the difference between eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis

Skin diseases are very common among people and, most of the time, doctors diagnose them with just a glance. Some of these diseases have similar characteristics, such as psoriasis , dermatitis and eczema . The similarity can be so great that it ends up hindering the diagnosis of the problem, therefore, in these cases, it is necessary to perform a biopsy.

Check below the main characteristics of each of the diseases and learn to differentiate them.

Contents

Eczema

Eczema is a chronic or acute process of inflammation of the skin and appears in the form of reddish spots with small blisters. Despite prevailing in some parts of the body, such as the hands and face, the disease can also present itself throughout the body.

The disease can be distinguished into two types: contact eczema and atopic eczema. Irritation of the first type is caused by irritating agents, such as soaps, jewelry and cosmetics. The second type is developed in early childhood and it is more common to appear in those who already have a history of the disease in the family.

The causes of the disease are not fully understood, but it is known that the genetic factor influences the atopic type and irritating substances influence the type of contact. Medical help is essential to find out what is the cause of eczema and thus be able to help with treatment. To relieve symptoms, the doctor may indicate moisturizing ointments, antihistamines and topical corticosteroids .

Dermatitis

Like eczema, dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction that causes redness, itching, blisters and can affect any part of the body. It can appear at any age, for several reasons, whether genetic, emotional, such as stress , or triggered by external agents (ex: cold weather and oiliness of the skin).

There are different types of dermatitis and they can be confused if they are not diagnosed correctly. Currently, there are 9 types of dermatitis: contact, seborrheic, atopic, herpetiform, ocher, exfoliative, diaper rash, perioral and nummular.

The treatments for the disease vary according to its type and intensity, but regardless of the type of dermatitis you have, the important thing is not to self-medicate and seek the help of your dermatologist.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious skin disease whose causes are still unknown. Dermatosis is characterized by redness and peeling of the skin and it is more common to appear before the age of 30 or after the age of 50. Currently, 1% to 3% of the world population has psoriasis.

Most people imagine that psoriasis only exists in one way, but the disease comes in 7 types: plaque, scalp, guttate, pustular, inverse, erythrodermic and psoriatic arthritis.

It is believed that genetics has great influence in at least 30% of the cases of people with psoriasis and that its treatment is extremely important to have a good quality of life.

Attention!

NEVER self-medicate or stop using a medication without first consulting a doctor. Only he will be able to tell which medication, dosage and duration of treatment is the most suitable for his specific case. The information contained on this site is only intended to inform, not in any way intended to replace the guidance of a specialist or serve as a recommendation for any type of treatment. Always follow the instructions on the package insert and, if symptoms persist, seek medical or pharmaceutical advice.


If you have any of the symptoms described above, or know someone who does, see a dermatologist. And if you still have any questions about the disease, ask us here. We will be happy to help you!

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