Is Psoriasis a Fungus?
Itchy red spots on one’s skin may indicate psoriasis or a fungal infection. However, though they may resemble one another, psoriasis and fungal infection are very different conditions.
As in the case of psoriasis and ringworm which may appear similar at first glance. Both conditions cause itchy and scaly red plaques to form on the skin. Whilst ringworm is a temporary rash caused by a fungus, psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that may last a lifetime, although the symptoms can be treated.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is caused by a dysregulation of the immune system affecting the skin. Skin cells reproduce at a rapid rate, resulting in red, scaly lesions on the skin. Psoriasis is not contagious, but is often hereditary.
The same cannot be said for fungal infection. Tinea is a type of fungal infection that looks like some symptoms of psoriasis. For example, psoriasis can cause thick fingernails comparable to fungal nail infections, and both can cause itchy and red skin rashes.
When tinea grows on your skin, it can cause a red, scaly skin rash that clears in the middle, referred to as ringworm. Fungal infections of the nails and skin can be hard to treat. Antifungal medications work, but you may need to take them for a long time.
Can a patient have both psoriasis and fungus infection?
A person can be infected with both psoriasis and fungus infection. People with psoriasis can develop a secondary fungal infection. Although people with fungus infection might not necessarily suffer from psoriasis.
Risk Factors for Psoriasis and Fungus Infection
Fungus infection is fairly common, and depending on the severity, it is easy to ignore at first. While anyone can develop nail fungus, toenail fungus is much more common than fingernail fungus. This is because fungi thrive in moist and warm environments.
If you are using a public shower or swimming pool, it is common for fungi to find their way into your skin.
Other risk factors associated with fungus infection include:
- Excessive sweating
- Living with someone else who has fungus infection
- Low immune system
- Walking barefoot in public gyms, showers, swimming pools, and other wet, fungi-prone areas
- Wearing shoes and socks without drying your feet
- Working in an environment where you get wet often
It is important to keep your skin healthy and moisturized if you suffer from psoriasis. When a flare-up does surface, there are a variety of treatment options, including phototherapy.
Good hygiene is also critical. While this will not prevent psoriasis, it can reduce your risk of an infection or other complications.
Antifungal agents in psoriasis care are usually prescribed to treat scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. They can also be used in areas of psoriasis found in the folds in the skin due to a potential risk for localized infection. They eliminate the yeast fungus that has been linked to conditions such as dandruff and scaly scalp. Some frequently used anti-dandruff shampoos claim to be effective against these microorganisms.
Prescribed antifungal treatments can be used alone or in combination with antibacterial treatments, topical corticosteroids, or both. They are occasionally incorporated into a treatment regimen to prevent fungal infection in people with psoriasis.