Oregon Esthetician State Board

Which condition is characterized by red patches covered with white silver scales?

1. Pruitis

2. Psoriasis

3. Exzema

4. Vitiligo

The correct answer is: Psoriasis

The condition characterized by red patches covered with white silver scales is psoriasis. This is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that accelerates the life cycle of skin cells, leading to the buildup of cells on the surface of the skin. The visible result is the formation of thick, red patches that are often covered with silvery-white scales. Psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body, but it most commonly affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. In contrast, pruritus refers to itchy skin and is not a distinct condition characterized by scaling patches. Eczema, while it also involves red, inflamed skin, typically presents with dry patches and may show oozing or crusting rather than the silver scales seen in psoriasis. Vitiligo is a skin condition marked by patches of skin losing their pigment, resulting in lighter areas, but it does not involve red patches or scaling. Thus, psoriasis is the correct identification for the described symptoms.