Whilst you may have a skin condition and will all your research on the Internet you may believe that you have psoriasis. But wait a moment, are you 100% sure that you have psoriasis or could it be something else?

Given the similarities between psoriasis and other conditions that can resemble psoriasis you really could have nothing more than a rash. If so, than many other such conditions can be treated with ease, but whatever condition you believe that you may have, you should always go and visit a doctor.

So what can look like psoriasis?

Pityriasus rosea – this actually resembles plaque psoriasis, but it is very different especially as the lesions are much thinner and less scaly. Headaches and a fever are sometimes associated with this condition.

Tinea corporis – sometimes known as “ringworm” which is actually a fungal infection on the body. Often red patches can be seen, but unlike psoriasis, the centres of the patches are usually clear. Treatment is normally aided with the application of an ointment.

Lichen planus – this has small purple lesions with less impact than psoriasis itself, which are often much larger and a much deeper red. At present there is no known cure as such, but can also lay dormant for many years.

Secondary syphilis – here a rash that looks like psoriasis appears, however testing of the blood shows that this can be cured.

Mycosis fungoides – tend to be very itchy and the silvery scales can be easily mistaken for psoriasis. Given its name, it has no connection with any kind of fungus and is usually treated the same way as psoriasis is.

Here are some conditions that resemble palmpplanter psoriasis:

Dyshidrotic eczema – here you will experience blisters rather than pustules and are normally seen on the fingers and toes. It can be considered a secondary condition of an infection from the intestinal wall, but this is not known for sure.
This is treated through medications but can be very itchy.

Tinea pedis – this is a fungal infection and is commonly referred to as Athlete’s Foot. It affects the feet and can spread to the soles of the feet also. Many treatments are available from over the counter and relief is generally very quick.

What can resemble scalp psoriasis?

Seborrheic dermatitis – this is normally presented by a yellow scaling and the patches are not usually very well defined as is the case with psoriasis. This is normally caused by the yeast in people who have a poor immune system and is easily treatable with a specially formulated shampoo.

Fungal infections - in scalp fungal infections, the hair is often broken, hair loss and pustules may be seen and a fungal culture is usually positive.

Lupus erythematosus – here the lesions are purple in colour and the skin is often much thinner than normal. This can be a fatal disease which does require immediate treatment to prevent conditions becoming worse.