The term pustular psoriasis is used for a heterogeneous group of diseases that share pustular skin characteristics.

Signs and symptoms

Characteristics may vary according to the subtype of pustular psoriasis. For example, it can be localized, commonly to the hands and feet ( localized pustular psoriasis), or generalized with widespread patches appearing randomly on any part of the body (

generalized pustular psoriasis Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is an extremely rare type of psoriasis that can present in a variety of forms. Unlike the most general and common forms of psoriasis, GPP usually covers the entire body and with pus-filled blisters rather than p ...

). However, all forms of pustular psoriasis share in common the presence of red and tender blotchy skin covered with

pustules A skin condition, also known as cutaneous condition, is any medical condition that affects the integumentary system—the organ system that encloses the body and includes skin, nails, and related muscle and glands. The major function of this ...

. Pustular psoriasis can be localized, commonly to the hands and feet (palmoplantar pustulosis), or generalized with widespread patches occurring randomly on any part of the body. Acrodermatitis continua is a form of localized psoriasis limited to the fingers and toes that may spread to the hands and feet. Pustulosis palmaris et plantaris is another form of localized pustular psoriasis similar to acrodermatitis continua with pustules erupting from red, tender, scaly skin found on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.

Generalized pustular psoriasis Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is an extremely rare type of psoriasis that can present in a variety of forms. Unlike the most general and common forms of psoriasis, GPP usually covers the entire body and with pus-filled blisters rather than p ...

(GPP) is also known as

(von Zumbusch) acute generalized pustular psoriasis von Zumbusch (acute) generalized pustular psoriasis (acute GPP) is the most severe form of generalized pustular psoriasis Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is an extremely rare type of psoriasis that can present in a variety of forms. Unlike the ...

in acute cases, and as impetigo herpetiformis during pregnancy. GPP is a rare and severe form of psoriasis that may require hospitalization. This form of psoriasis is characterized by an acute onset of numerous pustules on top of tender red skin. This skin eruption is often accompanied by a

fever Fever, also referred to as pyrexia, is defined as having a temperature above the normal range due to an increase in the body's temperature set point. There is not a single agreed-upon upper limit for normal temperature with sources using val ...

, muscle aches,

nausea Nausea is a diffuse sensation of unease and discomfort, sometimes perceived as an urge to vomit. While not painful, it can be a debilitating symptom if prolonged and has been described as placing discomfort on the chest, abdomen, or back of the ...

, and an elevated white blood cell count. Annular pustular psoriasis (APP), a rare form of GPP, is the most common type seen during childhood. APP tends to occur in women more frequently than in men, and is usually less severe than other forms of generalized pustular psoriasis such as impetigo herpetiformis. This form of psoriasis is characterized by ring-shaped plaques with pustules around the edges and yellow crusting. APP most often affects the torso, neck, arms, and legs.

Diagnosis

Classification

Pustular psoriasis is classified into two major forms: localized and

. Within these two categories there are several variants:

Management

injection of methotrexate

References

External links

Psoriasis {{Cutaneous-condition-stub