Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica Vs Psoriasis

Difference between Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica and Psoriasis: Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica (PLC) and Psoriasis are two different skin conditions. PLC is a rare disorder marked by small, raised, scaling spots on the skin, often pink, red, or brown, and occasionally itchy. The cause is uncertain but involves immune system irregularities, and it tends to resolve without treatment, though medications may help manage symptoms. On the other hand, Psoriasis is a common autoimmune disease characterised by red, scaly patches that can be itchy and painful. It involves rapid skin cell growth due to immune dysfunction and can affect various body areas, including nails and joints. 

Difference between Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica and Psoriasis

Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica (PLC) appears as small, scaling spots on the skin, often resolving spontaneously, whereas Psoriasis occurs as a red, scaly patch due to rapid skin cell growth, requiring varied treatments for symptom management. The table below provides differences between Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica and Psoriasis.

Aspect Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica (PLC) Psoriasis
Cause Unknown, likely immune system abnormalities Genetic predisposition, immune dysfunction, triggered by environmental factors
Appearance Small, scaling, pink to red papules Thick, red patches with silvery scales
Distribution Lesions appear in crops or waves and resolve over time Lesions can be chronic and persistent
Associated Symptoms Itching Itching, joint pain (psoriatic arthritis)
Histology Dense inflammatory infiltrate, epidermal changes Epidermal hyperplasia, inflammatory infiltrates
Treatment Topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, systemic medications Topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, oral medications, biologic therapies

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What is Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica?

Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica (PLC) is a rare, benign skin disorder characterised by the development of small, scaling, pink to red papules on the skin. These lesions can resemble pimples or blisters and may occur anywhere on the body. PLC is considered a variant of Pityriasis Lichenoides, a group of skin conditions that also includes PLEVA, which is characterised by more acute and severe lesions.

Causes of Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica

The exact cause of PLC is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development, following are a few to mention.

  • Immune System Dysfunction: PLC is believed to be an immune-mediated disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. However, the precise mechanism behind this immune dysfunction is not well-defined.
  • Infections: Some researchers suggest that certain viral or bacterial infections may trigger PLC or exacerbate its symptoms. However, no specific infectious agent has been consistently linked to the condition.
  • Genetic Predisposition: There may be a genetic component to PLC, as it sometimes appears to run in families. However, more research is needed to identify specific genetic factors involved in its development.
  • Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as sun exposure, certain medications, and chemical exposures have been proposed as potential triggers or aggravating factors for PLC. However, the evidence linking these factors to the condition is limited.

Symptoms of Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica

  • Skin Lesions: The primary symptom of PLC is the presence of small, raised papules on the skin. These papules can vary in size and colour, ranging from pink to red to brown. They may be round or oval-shaped and often have a scaly or crusted appearance.
  • Itching: Many individuals with PLC experience itching, which can range from mild to severe. Itching may worsen with heat or sweating.
  • Duration: PLC generally follows a chronic course, with new lesions appearing over weeks to months and existing lesions persisting for months to years. The condition may also have periods of remission, during which symptoms improve or disappear temporarily.
  • Distribution: The lesions of PLC are usually distributed symmetrically on the trunk, buttocks, arms, and legs. In some cases, they may also affect the face, neck, and scalp.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a continual autoimmune pore and skin circumstance characterised by the fast buildup of skin cells, mainly by the formation of thick, crimson patches with silvery scales. It is due to an ordinary immune response that triggers the pores and skin cells to grow too fast, normally taking days as opposed to weeks to mature. This excessive increase results in the formation of raised, inflamed patches, known as plaques, which can appear everywhere on the body but typically occur on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Psoriasis is not contagious, however, it can be associated with different fitness situations inclusive of psoriatic arthritis, which impacts the joints.

Causes of Psoriasis

  • Genetics: Psoriasis tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the condition. Specific genetic variations, particularly related to immune gadget genes, might also increase the probability of developing Psoriasis.
  • Immune System Dysfunction: Psoriasis is taken into consideration as an autoimmune ailment, in which the immune gadget mistakenly assaults wholesome skin cells, triggering infection and the fast turnover of pores and skin cells.
  • Environmental Triggers: Certain environmental elements can exacerbate or trigger Psoriasis flare-usain-prone people. These triggers might also encompass stress, infections, injury to the skin, and positive medicinal drugs.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Lifestyle conduct together with smoking, immoderate alcohol consumption, weight problems, and poor eating regimen can also have an impact on the improvement and severity of Psoriasis.
  • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal adjustments, inclusive of the ones occurring at some stage in puberty, being pregnant, or menopause, can affect the immune machine and potentially cause or worsen Psoriasis signs.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

  • Red Patches of Skin: Areas of pores and skin stricken by Psoriasis commonly appear pink or pink in colour because of infection.
  • Thickened Skin: The affected pores and skin regularly turn thickened and raised, forming plaques. These plaques may additionally have a silvery-white or greyish appearance due to the accumulation of dead skin cells.
  • Silvery Scales: Psoriasis plaques are frequently protected with silvery-white scales, which result from the rapid turnover of skin cells.
  • Dry and Cracked Skin: The skin stricken by Psoriasis may also feel dry, cracked, and painful or itchy once in a while.
  • Itching or Burning Sensation: Psoriasis can motivate itching or a burning sensation, mainly in regions in which the skin is specifically inflamed.

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Similarities between Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica and Psoriasis

  • Skin Lesions: Both PLC and Psoriasis can present with raised, scaly lesions on the skin. These lesions may appear red, pink, or brownish.
  • Itching: Itching is a common symptom in both conditions, although the severity can vary.
  • Chronicity: Both PLC and Psoriasis can follow a chronic course, with symptoms persisting for months to years.

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FAQ's

Is PLC infectious?

No, PLC is not infectious. It is believed to be caused by an abnormal immune response, rather than by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

What causes PLC?

The exact cause of PLC is unknown. It is assumed that involves an abnormal immune response, but the triggers for this response are not well understood.

How is PLC diagnosed?

Diagnosis of PLC is usually based on a physical examination of the skin lesions and sometimes requires a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

What are the treatment options for PLC?

Treatment for PLC may include topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, systemic medications such as antibiotics or immunosuppressants, and observation without treatment as the condition often resolves independently.

Is Psoriasis contagious?

No, Psoriasis is not infectious. It is an autoimmune condition that results from an overactive immune system.

What causes Psoriasis?

The exact cause of Psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.