Psoriasis in children is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, scaliness, itching, and cracking. This condition is often mistaken for eczema, allergies, or common skin irritations, so many parents don't realize their child needs further medical attention.
However, psoriasis in children is more than just a common skin condition. Although psoriasis is not contagious, this condition can affect a child's comfort, sleep quality, daily activities, and even self-confidence if not properly managed. Therefore, it is important for parents to recognize the symptoms, triggers, and treatment methods early on.
Understanding Psoriasis in Children as a Chronic Skin Disease
Psoriasis in children is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by a disorder of the immune system. In this condition, skin cell regeneration is faster than normal. As a result, skin cells accumulate on the surface, forming thick, dry, and scaly red patches.
Normally, skin cell turnover takes about a month. However, with psoriasis, this process can occur every 3 to 4 days. This buildup of skin cells causes the skin to appear thickened and scaly.
Parents also need to understand that psoriasis is not a contagious disease. Children cannot transmit the disease through touch, play, or sharing objects. Psoriasis can appear in childhood and flare-ups vary from child to child.
Recognize the Symptoms of Psoriasis in Children, Which Are Often Mistaken for Common Skin Problems
Psoriasis symptoms in children often resemble other skin disorders, leading to delayed recognition. Some psoriasis symptoms to watch for include:
- Reddish patches appear on the skin with white or silvery scales that appear thick and dry.
- Itchy, sore, or burning skin when it flares up.
- The skin cracks and bleeds in more severe cases.
- The rash most commonly appears on the elbows, knees, scalp, face, and skin folds.
- The scalp looks scaly like dandruff but is difficult to remove.
- Nails appear pitted, thickened, discolored, or brittle.
- Children become fussy, have difficulty sleeping, or feel uncomfortable during activities due to the itching.
- Symptoms can appear and disappear and recur at certain times.
In some cases, psoriasis in children can also affect the child's emotional condition due to discomfort and visible changes in the appearance of the skin.
Factors That Trigger Psoriasis in Children
The exact cause of psoriasis is currently unknown. However, several factors can trigger or worsen psoriasis in children, such as:
- A family history of psoriasis or autoimmune disease increases the risk in children.
- Bacterial infections such as streptococcal strep throat can trigger guttate psoriasis.
- Scratches, scratches, insect bites, or skin irritation can cause new psoriasis lesions to appear.
- Emotional stress and psychological pressure can worsen skin inflammation.
- Cold weather and dry air make skin more prone to relapse.
- Very dry skin due to the use of harsh soaps or bathing for too long can also worsen psoriasis.
- Lack of sleep and fatigue can affect the immune system and trigger relapses.
- Childhood obesity can increase inflammation and make psoriasis more difficult to control.
- The use of certain medications under certain conditions can trigger or worsen psoriasis.
- The habit of scratching itchy areas can cause irritation and expand the area of psoriasis.
Understanding trigger factors is important so that parents can help reduce the risk of recurrence in children.
Treatment for Psoriasis in Children Aims to Control Symptoms and Prevent Recurrence
Psoriasis in children generally cannot be completely cured, but symptoms can be controlled with proper treatment. The doctor will determine the treatment based on the severity, the child's age, and the area of skin affected by the psoriasis.
Some of the treatments carried out include:
1. Regular use of moisturizer
Moisturizers with emollient ingredients help maintain skin moisture, reduce itching, and prevent skin from becoming increasingly dry and chapped.
2. Topical medication
The doctor will prescribe certain topical medications to help reduce inflammation, scaling, and itching of the skin. Some medications used include topical corticosteroids, dithranol, salicylic acid, or other medications tailored to the child's age and severity of psoriasis.
3. Healthy Diet and Lifestyle
A balanced, nutritious diet, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity can help maintain overall health. Children are also encouraged to consume foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy skin.
4. Giving Vitamins
In some conditions, your doctor may recommend certain vitamins, such as Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Zinc, to help support healthy skin and the immune system.
5. Ultraviolet Light Therapy or Phototherapy
Phototherapy may be recommended for moderate to severe psoriasis that doesn't improve. This therapy uses ultraviolet (UV) light to help reduce inflammation and slow the growth of excess skin cells.
Furthermore, parents need to help their children avoid stress, skin injuries, and irritation, which can worsen symptoms. Regular checkups and checkups with a doctor are important to monitor the child's skin condition and adjust therapy as needed.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
Parents should take their child to the doctor immediately if the rash doesn't improve, gets worse, or recurs frequently over a long period of time. An examination is also necessary if the child experiences severe itching, difficulty sleeping, or if it begins to interfere with daily activities.
Early treatment can help control psoriasis symptoms and prevent impairment of a child's quality of life. Consult a dermatologist promptly to confirm the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment for your child's condition.
This article was written by Dr. Elin Herlina, Sp.DVE (Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology at EMC Cibitung Hospital).