HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Psoriasis
Exams and Tests
Your doctor can often recognize psoriasis by looking at your skin, scalp, and nails.
Tests aren't usually needed. But one or more of the following tests may be done:
- Reference Biopsy. If it is hard to diagnose the condition by looking at your skin, your doctor may remove a small skin sample and send it to a lab for analysis.
- Reference X-rays. If you have joint pain, X-rays may be taken to look for Reference psoriatic arthritis Opens New Window.
- Blood test. It can help rule out other forms of arthritis.
- Reference Throat culture. If your doctor thinks you may have Reference guttate psoriasis, he or she may want to check for strep throat.
- Reference KOH test Opens New Window. Sometimes this skin test is done to rule out a fungal infection.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference January 9, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Amy McMichael, MD - Dermatology |
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