To the untrained eye, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD) can sometimes be confused; both can be similar in appearance, however they are in fact very separate medical conditions.

To learn more about this topic, ESC turned to Winnipeg-based dermatologist Dr. Marni Wiseman, MD, FRCPC, to clarify how psoriasis and AD differ.

“Psoriasis and AD are not the same condition. They are different immunologically, and have different targeted treatments. Sometimes their symptoms can look similar, in which case I will do a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis, but that doesn’t happen very often.”

While psoriasis and AD are completely different conditions, the immune system plays an important role in both.

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that causes skin cells to multiply up to 10 times faster than normal. This makes the skin build up into bumpy red patches covered with white scales. They can grow anywhere, but most appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

AD is the term used for a group of conditions that make your skin inflamed or irritated. An individual with AD will tend to have an over-reactive immune system. When triggered, the itchy, rash-like and sometimes painful symptoms of AD will result.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of either AD or psoriasis, a qualified health care provider like a dermatologist can help.

Eczema Society of Canada (ESC) thanks Dr. Marni Wiseman, MD, FRCPC, for sharing her expertise during ESC’s March 2022 Life with Eczema virtual event series and on this content.  Funding for the Life with Eczema Winter 2022 event series was generously provided by Pfizer Canada and Sanofi Genzyme, a division of sanofi-aventis Canada Inc.

Disclaimer: Information provided in this resource does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to be used as a diagnostic tool. The information is up-to-date at time of publication. All medications, interventions, and treatment plans have risks and benefits, and it is important that individuals discuss their or their child’s specific health care needs with a qualified health care professional.

March 2022