Guttate psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis consists of well demarcated, red plaques with a micaceous scale that erupt over much of the body surface in a very short period of time. The plaques are typically small, in the order of .5 to 2 cm.
Guttate psoriasis can occur secondary to an acute streptococcal infection of the throat. It is relatively more common in children and young adults. Care should be taken not to irritate the skin during the acute flare, or erythroderma can result.

Treatment:

• Guttate psoriasis responds quite well to medium strength topical steroids, and tar containing ointments.
• UVB or PUVA are uncommonly necessary, but are effective.
• Aggressive systemic therapy is rarely indicated.
• If throat cultures indicate the presence of pathogenic streptococci, systemic antibiotic therapy for 10 days is recommended

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