Should I take antibiotics for psoriasis guttate even if I do not have an infection?

Question

Hi doctor,

I got psoriasis guttate all over my body seven weeks ago after a strep infection. Two weeks later, I got my diagnosis and got a creme - Calcipotriene or Betamethasone. The cream seems to be working, but I am constantly getting more spots. They are everywhere, even on armpits, intimate parts, scalp, feet, and some in the face. I went to see a dermatologist who wants me to be on antibiotics for two months, even though I do not have an infection. I feel hesitant. What is your opinion?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Guttate psoriasis is caused by a Streptococcal infection.

Guttate psoriasis is psoriasis that is characterized by multiple small scaly plaques that tend to affect most of the body. ‘Gutta’ is Latin for drop; guttate psoriasis looks like a shower of red, scaly teardrops that have fallen down on the body. Lesions are usually concentrated around the trunk and upper arms, and thighs. Face, ears, and scalp are also commonly affected, but the lesions may be very faint and quickly disappear in these areas. Occasionally there may be only a few scattered lesions in total. The diagnosis of guttate psoriasis is made by the combination of history, the clinical appearance of the rash, and evidence of preceding infection. The rash comes on very quickly, usually within a couple of days, and may follow a Streptococcal infection of the throat. It tends to affect children and young adults and has a good chance of spontaneously clearing completely.

The suggested treatment for guttate psoriasis is,

Antibiotics for Streptococcal infection.
Steroids.
Calcipotriene.

Hope this helps.

Regards.