Psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that has multiple presentations. Patients frequently present with concerns about the cosmetic changes that psoriasis produces. While psoriasis is rarely life-threatening, it can be very devastating to the affected individual. Consequently, the various presentations of psoriasis need to be known by the health care provider. In addition, other dermatological conditions that may be confused with psoriasis need to be identified as part of the differential diagnosis so that the appropriate treatment may be instituted and potential effects of psoriasis, both physical and emotional, may be minimized.