The two types children are most likely to get are:
- Plaque psoriasis. Most kids who have psoriasis have this type. It causes red, dry patches called plaques. It can also cause silvery scales. The plaques or scales usually show up on knees, elbows, lower back, and the scalp. They're itchy, red, and sometimes painful. They can also bleed. Plaque psoriasis patches are smaller, thinner, and less scaly in children than in adults.
- Guttate psoriasis. This kind is also called "drop-like" psoriasis. It causes small red dots to form on the trunk, back, arms, and legs. It's most likely to be triggered by a strep infection. Many children who get this type of psoriasis also develop plaque psoriasis.