Plaque (dermatology)

Plaque (dermatology)
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Elevated, solid, superficial lesion
Complications
Onset
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes
Risks
Diagnosis	Clinical examination
Differential diagnosis	Papule, Nodule
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Topical therapy, Phototherapy, Systemic therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis
Frequency
Deaths	N/A

A plaque in dermatology is a type of lesion that is characterized by being elevated, solid, and superficial. It is typically larger than 1 cm in diameter and can be seen in various skin conditions.

Characteristics

Plaques are often described as having a flat top and can vary in color. They may be associated with conditions such as psoriasis, where they appear as red, scaly patches on the skin. The surface of a plaque can be smooth or rough, and they may be itchy or painful depending on the underlying cause.

Causes

Plaques can be caused by a variety of dermatological conditions. Some common causes include:

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Lichen planus
• Tinea corporis (ringworm)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of plaques is primarily through clinical examination by a dermatologist. A biopsy may be performed to determine the exact cause of the plaque if the diagnosis is uncertain.

Treatment

Treatment of plaques depends on the underlying condition. Common treatments include:

• Topical therapy: Application of creams or ointments such as corticosteroids.
• Phototherapy: Use of ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of skin cells.
• Systemic therapy: Oral or injectable medications that affect the entire body, used for more severe cases.

See also

• Papule
• Nodule
• Macule

External links

• American Academy of Dermatology: Psoriasis