Pustular psoriasis

In pustular psoriasis, the skin becomes red, and tender, pus-filled blisters emerge. Sometimes, just the palms of the hands and soles of the feet are involved. Other times, lesions appear all over the body. Pustular psoriasis can also include systemic symptoms like fever, chills, weight loss, nausea, headache, joint pain and fatigue. (When this cluster of symptoms occurs, the result is called von Zumbusch-type psoriasis.) In some cases, pus accumulates underneath the fingernails, unseating them (a phenomenon known as acrodermatitis continua). Pustular psoriasis can be triggered by a reaction to medications (like steroids or lithium), other chemicals, stress or infections. Although pustular psoriasis most commonly affects adults, there is a very rare form that strikes children. Pustular psoriasis can be an acute, short-lived condition, or a long-term, chronic condition.