Topographic differential diagnosis of chronic plaque psoriasis: Challenges and tricks

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease presenting with erythematous and desquamative plaques with sharply demarcated margins, usually localized on extensor surface areas. Objective: To describe the common differential diagnosis of plaque psoriasis classified according to its topography in the scalp, trunk, extremities, folds (i.e., inverse), genital, palmoplantar, nail, and erythrodermic psoriasis. Methods: A narrative review based on an electronic database was performed including reviews and original articles published until 1 September 2020, assessing the clinical presentations and differential diagnosis for psoriasis. Results: Several differential diagnoses could be considered with other inflammatory, infectious, and/or neoplastic disorders. Topographical differential diagnosis may include seborrheic dermatitis, tinea capitis, lichen planopilaris in the scalp; lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, atopic dermatitis, syphilis, tinea corporis, pityriasis rubra pilaris in the trunk and arms; infectious intertrigo in the inguinal and intergluteal folds and eczema and palmoplantar keratoderma in the palms and soles. Conclusions: Diagnosis of psoriasis is usually straightforward but may at times be difficult and challenging. Skin cultures for dermatophytes and/or skin biopsy for histological examination could be required for diagnostic confirmation of plaque psoriasis.