What skin disease is characterized by red patches covered with silver-white scales?

Psoriasis is characterized by red patches covered with silver-white scales due to the rapid overproduction of skin cells. This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to an inflammatory response. The accelerated skin cell turnover results in the thick, scaly plaques commonly seen in affected areas.

While conditions like eczema and dermatitis also involve skin inflammation, they present differently with symptoms such as dryness, itchiness, and redness rather than the distinct scaly patches seen in psoriasis. Acne primarily affects hair follicles and is characterized by pimples, blackheads, and cysts, which distinctly differ from the presentation of psoriasis. Therefore, the specific description of "red patches covered with silver-white scales" directly aligns with the features of psoriasis, making it the correct choice.