Which of the following is a common symptom of psoriasis?

• A. Dry eyes
• B. Thickened, red patches on the skin
• C. Joint pain
• D. Headaches

Answer: (B)

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized primarily by the presence of thickened, red patches on the skin covered with silver scales. These patches are often itchy and can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. The severity of psoriasis can vary between individuals and can also lead to significant physical and emotional impacts.

While dry eyes, joint pain, and headaches can be associated symptoms or comorbidities in some cases, they are not defining characteristics of the condition itself. Dry eyes can occur in various other conditions and are not specific to psoriasis. Joint pain is related to psoriatic arthritis, which affects some individuals with psoriasis but is not a symptom of psoriasis. Headaches can arise from numerous causes and are not linked directly to the symptoms of psoriasis. Therefore, recognizing thickened, red patches on the skin is the most direct and distinguishing symptom of psoriasis.