The more you know, the more confident you can be about GPP
The content presented on this website contains suggestions to help you manage your GPP.
Please discuss with your doctor what is best for you.
What is generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP)?
Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare, life-long, inflammatory condition, that can affect the whole body.
GPP is characterized by redness and visible sterile pustules on the skin.
A GPP flare is when symptoms suddenly appear or intensify. Flares are unpredictable and you may experience the following chronic systemic (whole body) symptoms that can last for several months:
GPP should not be confused with other kinds of pustular psoriasis, such as:
- Palmoplantar pustulosis – affecting the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet
- Acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau – causing inflammation on the tips of fingers and/or toes
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with GPP, it’s helpful to know what it is, what to look for, and what to expect.
What is GPP?
Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a life-long condition that varies between individuals
Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a highly variable and unpredictable condition. Everyone’s experience is different. Symptoms of GPP vary between people living with the condition and even within the same person.
GPP:
May manifest with or without whole body symptoms and signs
May or may not occur alongside other types of psoriasis
Can occur with widespread eruption of sterile pustules all over the body or pustules can appear in one particular area
May not always show up in blood tests used for diagnosis
GPP is a life-long condition and many people with GPP experience ongoing symptoms, including skin scaling, crusting and redness. Ongoing symptoms can take up to 3 months to heal.
Tracking your symptoms can help you monitor your GPP and identify patterns. Track your symptoms and relay these to your doctor. Partnering with your doctor ensures they can provide you with the best care.
GPP symptom tracker
Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) flares may be potentially life-threatening if left untreated
Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) flares can appear as painful, sterile pustules (inflamed spots with pus) on the skin, covering large parts of the body.
GPP flares can affect more than your skin. While you may see blisters on the legs, arms, torso, or head, some of the chronic systemic (whole body) symptoms you experience may include:
GPP flares may cause health concerns that may become potentially life-threatening, such as serious infections or other organ damage. During a GPP flare, the skin is no longer able to protect against infections or serve its other functions to keep the body healthy. This could lead to serious infections, heart, and/or kidney problems.
While these problems may not affect everyone having a GPP flare, they are the most important reasons to get immediate medical care right away if you suspect a flare.