Which skin disorder is marked by silvery scales on the skin?

Which skin disorder is marked by silvery scales on the skin?

• A. Rosacea
• B. Psoriasis
• C. Acne vulgaris
• D. Dermatitis

Answer: (B)

Psoriasis is characterized by the presence of silvery scales on the skin. This chronic autoimmune condition leads to an accelerated skin cell turnover, causing new cells to form too quickly and resulting in build-up on the skin's surface. The silvery scales are formed from this thickened layer of skin, which often appears red or inflamed underneath, and can occur on various parts of the body, including the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. In contrast, rosacea typically manifests as facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like breakouts, but does not feature silvery scales. Acne vulgaris is primarily associated with clogged pores, leading to pimples, blackheads, and cystic lesions; it does not present with scales. Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin that can result in rashes, redness, and itching, but again lacks the distinctive silvery scaling characteristic of psoriasis.

Psoriasis is characterized by the presence of silvery scales on the skin. This chronic autoimmune condition leads to an accelerated skin cell turnover, causing new cells to form too quickly and resulting in build-up on the skin's surface. The silvery scales are formed from this thickened layer of skin, which often appears red or inflamed underneath, and can occur on various parts of the body, including the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.

In contrast, rosacea typically manifests as facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like breakouts, but does not feature silvery scales. Acne vulgaris is primarily associated with clogged pores, leading to pimples, blackheads, and cystic lesions; it does not present with scales. Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin that can result in rashes, redness, and itching, but again lacks the distinctive silvery scaling characteristic of psoriasis.