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 both skin diseases have distinct causes and require very different treatments, understanding the differences will help with getting an accurate diagnosis from a dermatologist. While studies have shown that both eczema and psoriasis seem to have a genetic relation, both have entirely triggers and causes. It is important to know the difference so that the right type of treatment can be administered and the skin disease can be controlled properly.
Eczema vs. psoriasis is characterized by skin that is itchy, scaly, and in severe cases may be raw, red, and may also bleed. In the case of eczema the skin lesions are also red, scaly in appearance, but the skin lesions are usually moist and may be oozing. In some chronic cases of eczema the skin lesions can look more like psoriasis lesions; however eczema lesions will have the telltale sign of oozing. Unlike eczema, psoriasis often has a genetic relationship in families and can be triggered by emotionally stressful events.
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. Psoriasis on the other hand is not associated with allergies and can sometimes happen in parallel with psoriatic arthritis. It is also the usual treatment when dealing with eczema vs. psoriasis to prescribe a medication with an antihistamine to help with the itching of the skin. Eczema can however be managed and controlled with the use of topical ointments and treatments; it is also advisable to avoid contact with skin irritants to prevent further outbreaks.
In the case of psoriasis there are different types of treatment that can be used to bring the disease under control and ultimately to cure the disease. Some treatments will work for both eczema and psoriasis, though this is not always the case as some cases of either disease need specific treatments. 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. The best way to determine whether you are suffering from eczema vs. psoriasis is to see a dermatologist as soon as you see a rash or skin lesions in the areas most commonly affected by psoriasis and eczema.
