Pustular psoriasis manifests as a red rash with thickened, scaly skin and tiny pustules all over the body; if left untreated, it can lead to dangerous complications.
This article was professionally reviewed by Dr. Dang Thi Ngoc Bich, Specialist in Dermatology and Cosmetic Skin Care, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City.
Pustular psoriasis is a severe variant of psoriasis caused by a disorder of the skin's immune system. This condition accounts for about 1% of psoriasis cases.
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- The skin develops red patches accompanied by numerous tiny white or yellow pus-filled pimples.
- The pimples are easily broken, causing pain and itching, and after drying, they form white scabs that peel off easily.
- Generalized pustular psoriasis may present with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, tremors, loss of appetite, nausea, rapid heartbeat, joint pain, cracked skin, etc.
Pustular psoriasis causes pain and itching; after the pustules burst, they dry and form white, easily peeling scales. (Image: Freepik)
Classify
Pustular psoriasis is classified into two types, localized and generalized, based on clinical presentation and location of formation.
- Diffuse pustular psoriasis: A sudden appearance of pustular rash all over the body, with forms including:
+ Von Zumbusch psoriasis is generalized pustular psoriasis accompanied by symptoms such as fever, joint pain, muscle weakness, headache, dehydration, and anemia...
+ Annular psoriasis with circular lesions that are scaly at the edges.
+ Acute pustular psoriasis usually has no systemic symptoms and resolves spontaneously after a few days.
+ Herpes-like impetigo is a form of pustular psoriasis that occurs in pregnant women.
- Localized pustular psoriasis: Appears on the palms, soles, fingertips, toes, and nails.
This condition is common in adults, especially those with a history of psoriasis.
Factors that increase the risk of developing the disease:
- Genetics.
- Staphylococcus aureus skin infection.
- Abruptly stopping the use of systemic steroids.
- Electrolyte imbalance, hypocalcemia.
- Side effects of the medication.
- Pregnant.
- Exposure to ultraviolet rays.
- Stress
- Get vaccinated against tuberculosis and H1N1 influenza.
People who come into contact with secretions from the wounds of a person with pustular psoriasis do not contract the disease. Patients diagnosed with pustular psoriasis need to determine early whether they have von Zumbusch psoriasis, as this form can be fatal.
Diagnosis and treatment
Besides clinical manifestations, pustular psoriasis is diagnosed using the following methods:
- Testing of wound exudate.
- Skin biopsy (a small sample of skin, 3-5mm in size, is cut and examined under a microscope to find the cause of the disease).
- Blood test.
- Liver and kidney function tests.
- Measure the concentration of electrolytes and minerals in the blood.
Pustular psoriasis is difficult to treat. Depending on the individual's constitution and the type of psoriasis they have, there are currently many treatment methods available, such as:
- Topical medication.
- Biological drugs.
- Immunosuppressant drugs.
Most cases respond well to home treatment under a doctor's guidance, but some more severe cases require hospitalization. Without timely treatment, pustular psoriasis can cause several dangerous complications such as hypocalcemia, malignant hyperthermia (a sudden increase in body temperature accompanied by muscle spasms and rapid heartbeat), liver damage, acute kidney failure, malnutrition, and even death.
Patients should go to a reputable medical facility with a dermatology department for appropriate and safe treatment. Avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter creams or applying herbal remedies to the wound, as this can worsen the condition.
Disease prevention
- Quit smoking.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet.
- Protect your skin from sun exposure.
Thang Vu
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