Psoriasis

Dermatology · ~4% of blueprint

Pathophysiology: Immune-mediated (T-cell) keratinocyte hyperproliferation → thick scaly plaques.
Signs & Symptoms: Well-demarcated erythematous plaques with silvery scale on extensor surfaces/scalp; nail pitting.
Gold Standard Diagnosis: Clinical; biopsy if unclear (Munro microabscesses).
First-line Treatment: Topical corticosteroids + vitamin D analogs; phototherapy; biologics for severe disease.

High-Yield Pearl

Extensor plaques with silvery scale + nail pitting = psoriasis; Auspitz sign = pinpoint bleeding on scale removal.

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