Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes skin cells to multiply too quickly, resulting in highly visible inflamed patches of skin. They most commonly appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Symptoms include a patchy rash over some body parts, small scaling spots (commonly seen in children), and dry, cracked skin that may bleed and cause itching, burning, or soreness.

Psoriasis lesions may appear violet, dark brown, or gray on darker skin, versus red or silver on lighter skin. These differences can lead to misdiagnosis.