Psoriasis is the universally accepted medical term for this chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin condition, though it is occasionally referred to by older, descriptive historical names. Common Synonyms and Historical Terminology While psoriasis is the standard clinical designation, you may encounter several historical or descriptive terms in older medical literature. Historically, because of its scaly appearance, it was sometimes referred to as psora (a Greek term meaning "itch") or alphos. In early medical texts, severe or generalized forms were sometimes described as leprosy of the Greeks, a term that is now considered obsolete and medically inaccurate, as it is unrelated to Hansen's disease (leprosy). You may also see the abbreviation PsO used in clinical charts and research abstracts to denote psoriasis. Classification and Official Nomenclature In modern medical systems, psoriasis is classified precisely according to its manifestation and distribution. Major classification systems include: ICD-10/11: The World Health Organization classifies the condition under codes L40, which includes various subtypes like psoriasis vulgaris (plaque psoriasis), guttate psoriasis, and pustular psoriasis. OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): This database tracks the genetic components of psoriasis under entry ID 177900. Orphanet: Recognized as a complex, multi-system inflammatory disease, it is indexed in the Orphanet database (ORPHA:7399), which highlights its systemic nature beyond just the skin. Why Multiple Names Exist The variation in terminology largely stems from historical attempts to categorize the disease based solely on visual appearance before the underlying immune-mediated pathology was understood. As our scientific understanding of psoriasis has evolved from a simple skin disorder to a chronic systemic disease, medical professionals have moved toward using specific clinical descriptors—such as "plaque," "inverse," or "erythrodermic"—to better guide treatment strategies. Today, "psoriasis" remains the preferred term globally to ensure clarity in patient records, insurance billing, and clinical communication. Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider regarding specific symptoms or treatment plans. References Orphanet: Portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs (ORPHA:7399) NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) OMIM: Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (Entry #177900) National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF)

Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-06

Psoriasis is the universally accepted medical term for this chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin condition, though it is occasionally referred to by older, descriptive historical names. Common Synonyms and Historical Terminology While psoriasis is the standard clinical designation, you may encounter several historical or descriptive terms in older medical literature. Historically, because of its scaly appearance, it was sometimes referred to as psora (a Greek term meaning "itch") or alphos.

Psoriasis synonyms

Name: Psoriasis synonyms
Creator: DiseaseMaps Editorial Team
Published: 2015-06-11UTC09:16:50.0000000

Other names for Psoriasis: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.

Psoriasis is the universally accepted medical term for this chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin condition, though it is occasionally referred to by older, descriptive historical names.

Common Synonyms and Historical Terminology

While psoriasis is the standard clinical designation, you may encounter several historical or descriptive terms in older medical literature. Historically, because of its scaly appearance, it was sometimes referred to as psora (a Greek term meaning "itch") or alphos. In early medical texts, severe or generalized forms were sometimes described as leprosy of the Greeks, a term that is now considered obsolete and medically inaccurate, as it is unrelated to Hansen's disease (leprosy). You may also see the abbreviation PsO used in clinical charts and research abstracts to denote psoriasis.

Classification and Official Nomenclature

In modern medical systems, psoriasis is classified precisely according to its manifestation and distribution. Major classification systems include:

ICD-10/11: The World Health Organization classifies the condition under codes L40, which includes various subtypes like psoriasis vulgaris (plaque psoriasis), guttate psoriasis, and pustular psoriasis.

OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): This database tracks the genetic components of psoriasis under entry ID 177900.

Orphanet: Recognized as a complex, multi-system inflammatory disease, it is indexed in the Orphanet database (ORPHA:7399), which highlights its systemic nature beyond just the skin.

Why Multiple Names Exist

The variation in terminology largely stems from historical attempts to categorize the disease based solely on visual appearance before the underlying immune-mediated pathology was understood. As our scientific understanding of psoriasis has evolved from a simple skin disorder to a chronic systemic disease, medical professionals have moved toward using specific clinical descriptors—such as "plaque," "inverse," or "erythrodermic"—to better guide treatment strategies. Today, "psoriasis" remains the preferred term globally to ensure clarity in patient records, insurance billing, and clinical communication.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider regarding specific symptoms or treatment plans.