COMPASS: Generalised Pustular Psoriasis (for Emergency Medicine Physicians)

Learn about the clinical presentation, clinical course and clinicopathologic considerations in diagnosing and available treatment options for GPP.

GPP is a rare but severe and potentially life-threatening form of psoriasis. Because of its rarity, misdiagnosis is common, along with late referral and treatment initiation. Emergency department physicians are likely to encounter patients with pustular subtypes but may have limited understanding of the presentation and pathogenesis of GPP and can mistake the flares of sterile pustules for infection. A prompt patient referral to a dermatologist is crucial. Although dermatologists can accurately diagnose GPP, they may lack the experience to treat and may have limited knowledge of treatment options.

Learning objectives

After completing this course, you should be able to:

• Differentiate GPP with other pustular psoriasis subtypes and with plaque psoriasis
• Enumerate the diagnostic parameters of GPP according to available criteria
• List the different treatment options for GPP