Psoriasis can develop in children any time between birth and the teen years. Although children can develop the same types of psoriasis as adults, guttate psoriasis is more common among children.
Guttate psoriasis often occurs after an infection, especially strep throat, but a child can also develop this type of psoriasis in the absence of an infection. Treating the infection may clear the psoriasis for good, but some children will later develop plaque psoriasis.
It can be very difficult to diagnosis psoriasis in children because it can also look very similar to diaper rash, cradle cap or a yeast infection. This is why it is important to see a board-certified dermatologist.
Once a diagnosis is made, your dermatologist will consider whether treatment is necessary, as well as the risks and benefits of possible treatments.
Learn more from the American Academy of Dermatology about treating children with psoriasis.