Which skin condition causes redness and scaly patches typically on the elbows and scalp?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, scaly patches that can appear red and inflamed. It commonly affects areas such as the elbows, knees, and scalp, often exacerbated by factors like stress, cold weather, and certain medications. The lesions associated with psoriasis can be itchy and sometimes painful, which can significantly impact a person's quality of life. The presence of these distinctive scaly patches is a key feature that helps differentiate psoriasis from other skin disorders.

While contact dermatitis, acne, and rosacea can also cause skin irritation and inflammation, they do not typically present with the same scaly appearance or location associated with psoriasis. Contact dermatitis usually is a localized reaction to an allergen or irritant, acne primarily affects the face, chest, and back with comedones and pustules, and rosacea typically manifests as redness and visible blood vessels, particularly on the face, without the thick scales characteristic of psoriasis.