A 28-year-old HIV-positive man develops sudden onset of multiple small drop-shaped psoriatic lesions over the trunk and limbs following a streptococcal throat infection. What is this clinical variant?
- A Psoriasis vulgaris
- B Guttate psoriasis ✓
- C Inverse psoriasis
- D Pustular psoriasis
Explanation
Guttate psoriasis is characterized by numerous small (0.5-1.5 cm) drop-shaped papules scattered over the trunk and proximal limbs, typically triggered by group A streptococcal infection in young patients. The term guttate derives from the Latin 'gutta' meaning drop. It can be a presenting form or an exacerbation of existing psoriasis, and while most cases resolve spontaneously, a proportion progress to chronic plaque psoriasis. HIV infection can trigger or worsen psoriasis.
Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.