Defining Flexural Psoriasis

Flexural psoriasis, occurs in the folds of the skin (under the breasts, in the armpits, under the buttocks, near the genitals, or in the folds of the abdomen) in areas which are likely to rub together and sweat. Because the flexion creases, or skin folds are affected, this type of psoriasis occurs more often and more severely in overweight individuals.

Contrary to most common type of psoriasis (plaque psoriasis), flexural psoriasis does is not characterized by scaling. Flexural psoriases, instead, is characterized by inflamed, bright red yet smooth patches of skin that may be painful and itchy. The rubbing together and sweating if the skin folds aggravates irritation of the affected areas.

One cause of flexural psoriasis may be yeast overgrowth, as well as high sensitivity to friction and/or sweating. The skin lesions are further intensified by the sweat and skin rubbing together in the skin folds.

Like most types of psoriasis, flexural psoriasis is generally persistent, and will be difficult to cure with just topical treatments.