Pustular psoriasis Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, September 2008.
Answers to questions about pustular psoriasis
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email. This section will expand over time.
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Pustular psoriasis Psoriasis Erythrodermic psoriasis Flexural psoriasis Guttate psoriasis Plaque psoriasis |
- How long will someone with pustular psoriasis need to stay in hospital?
- Do the pustules mean I have an infection?
- What is acropustulosis?
How long will someone with pustular psoriasis need to stay in hospital?
Answer
Pustular psoriasis can sometimes be treated without going into hospital. However, people who have severe pustular psoriasis are likely to be admitted to hospital.
Explanation
You will usually need to stay in hospital for at least a week if you are admitted with pustular psoriasis. The length of time it takes to recover varies between individuals and depends on the severity of your psoriasis.
The exact length of time you will need to stay in hospital depends on your response to treatment. Treatments may vary and some are likely to provide a more rapid response than others. Your doctor will discuss your treatment options with you.
Sources
- Personal communication, Dr Arden-Jones, Consultant Dermatologist, Southampton University NHS Trust and Spire Southampton Hospital, 31st July 2008
Do the pustules mean I have an infection?
Answer
No, the pustules in pustular psoriasis are not a sign of infection.
Explanation
Although pustules on the skin are often a sign of infection in other conditions, in the case of pustular psoriasis, they are not. The fluid in the pustules does not contain bacteria. It consists of white blood cells (cells from your immune system).
The pustules are not contagious and can't be spread to anyone else.
Sources
- Personal communication, Dr Arden-Jones, Consultant Dermatologist, Southampton University NHS Trust and Spire Southampton Hospital, 31st July 2008
What is acropustulosis?
Answer
Acropustulosis is a rare type of pustular psoriasis, in which skin lesions develop on the ends of the fingers and sometimes the toes.
Explanation
The lesions that develop in acropustulosis may be very painful and can cause damage to the nails. In very severe cases, it can affect the bones in the finger.
This type of pustular psoriasis may develop after injury to the skin. You will usually be treated with an ointment containing a steroid if you have this condition. You may also receive oral medicines and PUVA light therapy.
Sources
- Pustular psoriasis. The Psoriasis Association. www.psoriasis-association.org.uk, accessed 4 June 2008
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Dr Mike Ardern-Jones, BSc, MBBS, MRCP, DPhil, Consultant Dermatologist; Southampton University NHS Trust and Spire Southampton Hospital, and by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: September 2008
Pustular psoriasis factsheet
Visit the pustular psoriasis health factsheet for more information.
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