What skin condition presents with silvery scales and adherent plaques?

Psoriasis is characterized by the presence of silvery scales and thick, adherent plaques on the skin. This chronic autoimmune condition leads to an accelerated life cycle of skin cells, resulting in a buildup on the surface of the skin. The appearance of these scales is often found over extensor surfaces such as the elbows and knees, as well as the scalp and lower back. The silvery color comes from the accumulation of skin cells that are not shed normally.

In contrast, dermatitis, eczema, and pityriasis rosea have different presentations that do not primarily feature the silvery scaling typically associated with psoriasis. Dermatitis can involve redness, itching, and inflammation, but it lacks the distinct plaque formation seen in psoriasis. Eczema is often related to pruritus and can have a weepy or crusted appearance, diverging from the characteristic plaques of psoriasis. Pityriasis rosea typically presents as a single herald patch followed by smaller patches and does not show the silvery scales characteristic of psoriasis.

Thus, the distinct presentation of silver scales and adherent plaques firmly supports psoriasis as the correct answer.