Types of Psoriasis and Common Treatments

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes a buildup of cells and scaling on the skin’s surface. Redness, scaling and inflammation are common signs of psoriasis.

Learn more about what causes this painful skin condition, how to treat it and options people may have to help reduce costs associated with the condition.

Who's At Risk For Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a common skin disease, affecting approximately 7.5 million Americans. While the environmental causes of psoriasis remain largely unknown, two common contributing factors are an overactive immune system and a genetic predisposition to the condition.

Several “triggers” that can cause flare ups in people who are susceptible to psoriasis include:

• Stress and anxiety
• Certain medications
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Injuries and skin abrasions 
• Infection

Types of Psoriasis And Their Symptoms

There are several different types of psoriasis. They are:

1. Plaque Psoriasis
   This form of psoriasis is the most common, making up over 80 percent of all psoriasis cases. It is associated with red, inflamed patches of skin most commonly found on the elbows, knees or scalp.

2. Guttate Psoriasis
   This form of skin rash develops in childhood and is categorized by small pink spots on the skin near the torso, arms or legs.

3. Pustular Psoriasis
   This form of adult psoriasis can cause white, pus-filled blisters and inflammation. It can be localized or widespread.

4. Inverse Psoriasis
   This form of psoriasis is most common under the armpits or breasts or near the genitals.

5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis
   This rare form of psoriasis most often resembles a sunburn and typically covers a wide surface area.

Psoriasis Treatments

Depending on the severity of the case, several treatment options are available:

1. Topical treatments and ointments
2. Systemic treatments administered either orally or by injection
3. Biologic drugs
4. Phototherapy or natural light therapy

Does Medicare Cover Psoriasis Treatment?

If you have psoriasis and are enrolled in Medicare, it's helpful to know that Medicare Part B covers medical services that help diagnose or treat health conditions. This means that if you notice some of the symptoms listed above and visit your doctor, the visit and any resulting diagnostic tests may be covered.

As with most Medicare-approved services, you typically will pay a 20 percent coinsurance for your Part B covered services once you meet your Part B deductible.

A Medigap policy (also called Medicare Supplement Insurance) can help cover your Medicare Part B coinsurance costs.

Medigap plans are sold by private insurance companies to help cover copays, deductibles, coinsurance and other out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare (Part A and Part B).

Learn more about the benefits of a Medigap plan, especially if you have psoriasis and plan on enrolling in Medicare.