Psoriasis Tests & Diagnosis

Visual Tests

A lab or blood test cannot confirm or deny the presence of psoriasis. A doctor must examine the skin and nails closely, sometimes analyzing dry skin under a microscope. A dermatologist would have the specialization to make an accurate diagnosis.

White Flake of Skin

When the doctor conducts a test with or without a microscope, he or she will pull a white flake of skin. If blood appears, the skin is likely affected with psoriasis. Tests including a skin biopsy or scraping might be necessary for an accurate diagnosis. You won't need surgery for a skin biopsy-just a local anesthetic.

Process of Elimination

Psoriasis might also be diagnosed through process of elimination. If other similar-looking conditions have been ruled out, your doctor might explore psoriasis as a possibility. If you suspect psoriasis, you will need to be assertive and request that you receive the appropriate tests. Keep going back to the doctor, and seek second opinions so that you can get conclusive answers. Keep track of your symptoms so that you have additional information to pinpoint what's causing your condition.

Psoriatic Arthritis

If you have psoriatic arthritis, you'll experience joint swelling and pain. Problems will begin in the finger around the nail after a skin eruption. A doctor may choose to conduct a blood test in order to test for rheumatoid factor (RF), which detects rheumatoid arthritis. This type of test can help doctors understand whether other conditions are causing symptoms of arthritis.

Misdiagnosis

Psoriasis is commonly misdiagnosed since it can resemble so many conditions like acne, arthritis, and sexually transmitted diseases. The condition can go undetected until symptoms become present. Symptoms vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe, so it's impossible to develop a "check list" of what causes psoriasis. The best way to receive an accurate diagnosis is to see a skin specialist.

Lab Tests

There are no blood tests or urine tests available to test for psoriasis. A doctor might order a blood test or urine test to rule out other possible skin conditions, rashes, or sexually transmitted diseases.