Erythrodermic psoriasis (EP) is an acute life-threatening complication of psoriasis. It is the least common form of psoriasis, but it occurs in all ages, from infancy through adulthood. It can occur suddenly, as the first sign of psoriasis, but more commonly develops as a complication of sun exposure, steroid withdrawal, drugs, or an illness in those with known plaque (common) psoriasis or in those with difficult-to-control psoriasis. Additionally, erythroderma may occur from generalized pustular psoriasis. Dehydration and temperature control problems are significant morbidities necessitating hospitalization for fluid management as well as treatment of disease.

Immunocompromised Patient Considerations:
HIV-associated psoriasis is often severe and refractory to treatment. This is interesting, because HIV is a disease of T-lymphocyte depletion and psoriasis is a disease of cytokine-mediated T-lymphocyte proliferation. Psoriasis is nonetheless exacerbated by HIV.