Psoriasis can be a problem in kids, too

LUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) - You've probably heard of psoriasis in adults. But did you know that kids, even babies can suffer too?

Dr. Michelle Tarbox, a Dermatologist at Texas Tech, says if your child has a rash or patch of scaly skin that doesn't go away, it needs to be checked because it could be more than just a skin problem.

She explains, "There's something called Psoriatic Arthritis. That's something about 30% of people who have psoriasis can develop. It can cause degenerative joint disease. that means damage to the joints that can't be healed. So we want to catch it before that happens."

The National Psoriasis Foundation has produced a  video called "I'm just like you."

Dr. Tarbox suggests kids with arthritis really should watch this to better understand the disease and not feel so isolated because it is fairly common, diagnosed in 4.5% of the population.

For pictures of children with psoriasis, go to http://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/paediatric-psoriasis/.

To see the NPF video, "I'm just like you" go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rP3Q8d9haGA.

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