Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease that speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells.

Psoriasis often has a typical appearance that a primary care doctor can recognize, but it can be confused with other skin diseases (like eczema), so a dermatologist (skin doctor) is often the best doctor to diagnose it.

Psoriasis can lead to an arthritic condition called psoriatic arthritis which is often diagnosed by a rheumatologist (arthritis doctor).

Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment for psoriasis at CDC.com.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not substitute the medical advice of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.