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By Mayo Clinic Staff

There are several types of psoriasis. Each has its own signs and symptoms and can look different from person to person. It also is possible to have more than one type at the same time.

Psoriasis happens when skin cells grow too quickly, causing a buildup of dry, scaly patches on the skin. These patches can be small or they can cover large areas of the body. Psoriasis is not contagious — you can't spread it to others or get it from someone else.

Psoriasis is a long-term condition that doesn't have a cure. But treatments can help you manage your symptoms. The exact cause of psoriasis isn't known, though it's thought to be an immune system condition.

Find out about the symptoms, treatments and self-care tips for the main types of psoriasis:

• Plaque psoriasis
• Nail psoriasis
• Guttate psoriasis
• Inverse psoriasis
• Pustular psoriasis
• Erythrodermic psoriasis