Symptom checker for skin and joints
Online skin diagnosis tool
DermNet New Zealand, have developed an online tool called DermDiag to help you to identify a skin condition. The tool is designed to help you understand your skin condition.
Check your skin.
Please note, the tool does not provide medical advice.
Self-help guide
Let's see if we can help you understand the symptoms you have developed. Within this page we will tell you about the symptoms that may be included in a diagnosis of psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis.
Do you have a skin rash?
If yes, what does it look like?
- red, scaly (silvery), thick, itchy, flaking, sore or bleeding
Where is it located?
- a single patch (anywhere on the body), on your scalp, on your genitals, in your nails (fingers or toes - ridging, pitting, lifting or discoloured), elbows, knees, trunk or an all over widespread rash
If you have answered yes to any of these questions it does not necessarily mean you have psoriasis although all or some of these symptoms are part of the diagnosis of psoriasis.
Do you have pains in your joints?
If yes, what does it feel like?
- painful, hot to touch, swollen, stiff, inflamed or bruised
Where is it located?
- hands, fingers, feet, toes, lower back or heel
If you have answered yes to any of these questions it does not necessarily mean you have psoriatic arthritis although all or some of these symptoms are part of the diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis.
Other symptoms
So, you have a rash and/or joint pain. In psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis there are other symptoms and circumstances which may help with the diagnosis. These include:
- general tiredness and or fatigue
- a close relative who has been diagnosed with psoriasis
Once again even with these symptoms it does not necessarily mean you have psoriasis and or psoriatic arthritis but when seeking a diagnosis it is useful to remember how the rash or joint pain started and if there was any event that coincided with the onset of symptoms such as:
- recent sore throat (streptococcal bacteria)
- injury or trauma to the skin or joint
- recent stressful event
- change in hormones (such as puberty, pregnancy etc.)
REMEMBER: There are many causes of a rash and joint pain and psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are just a couple of the conditions that have these symptoms. It is extrememly important to have any change in your skin or your joints or your general health checked by your healthcare provider. Follow this link for some advice of how to get a diagnosis.
*If you are looking for symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) please visit the official NHS website