Clinical Parameters Key in Psoriasis Skin Clearance

According to a study published in Dermatology, clinical parameters are important in determining complete skin clearance (CSC) response in psoriasis.

The study took place in 26 dermatology centers across China between August 2020 and May 2022. A total of 511 patients were enrolled in this real-world setting. The response to ixekizumab was assessed using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). The researchers compared the absolute DLQI score and DLQI (0) response at 12 weeks among patients achieving different levels of skin clearance. They also conducted a logistic regression analysis to identify baseline clinical characteristics that could predict CSC.

Results revealed that after 12 weeks of treatment, 44.2% of patients (226 out of 511) achieved CSC, defined as a 100% improvement in PASI score (PASI-100). A significantly higher proportion of patients with CSC, compared with those with almost clear skin (PASI 90-99), experienced no quality of life impairment, as indicated by a DLQI score of 0 (54.4% vs 37.7%, P=.001). Moreover, the study found that female patients were more likely to achieve CSC response, while previous biologic treatment and joint involvement were associated with a lower likelihood of CSC response.

“In daily practice, achieving CSC represents a clinically meaningful treatment goal, especially from the patient perspective,” the authors concluded.

Reference
Jiang Y, Li Y, Huang D, et al. Quality of life benefit and clinical predictors of complete skin clearance in psoriasis: a multicenter, prospective, real-world study. Dermatology. Published online ahead of print June 13, 2023;10.1159/000531420. doi:10.1159/000531420