Characteristics of psoriasis and contact dermatitis for differential diagnosis

CharacteristicsPsoriasisContact dermatitis
Sites involvedKnees, elbows, scalps, palm and sole, all bodySites in contact with irritants or allergens
SymptomsGenerally noneBurning in irritant form, itching in allergic form
SignsSolitary or multiple erythematous plaques with characteristic adherent silvery white scales, Koebner phenomenonErythema, edema, papule and vesicles, fissures in irritant form; hyperkeratosis in chronic form
Histology
    ParakeratosisModerate or strong, confluent; para-/ortho-keratosisMild and in multiple foci
    AcanthosisRegularMore irregular
    Granular layerThinnerNormal
    Capillaries in the upper dermisTortuous or dilatateHorizontal
    Lymphocytic exocytosis in epidermisNo (less likely)Yes
    Edema of papillary dermisNo (less likely)Yes
    SpongiosisMore frequentLess frequent
    Munro microabscessesYesNo
PreventionNot availableAvoidance of contact with irritants or sensitizing agents