Patients With Psoriatic Disease Unaware of Systemic Manifestations and Comorbidities

Many patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis were unaware of the systemic nature and increased risk of comorbidities associated with psoriatic disease (PsD), according to a recent study published in Dermatology and Therapy.

Researchers conducted an analysis on Psoriasis and Beyond: The Global Psoriatic Disease Survey, which was a cross-sectional, quantitative online survey, on 1678 patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis with or without concomitant psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Of patients, 31% reported concomitant PsA with 80% describing their PsA severity as moderately or highly active.

It was found that 63% of patients had heard the term "psoriatic disease"; however, only a few were aware of psoriasis manifestations (ie, PsA, axial symptoms) or comorbidities (ie, obesity, cardiovascular disease). Of patients with psoriasis and concomitant PsA, 70% reported swollen and tender joints. Approximately 84% of patients reported that they had experienced stigma and discrimination in addition to a negative impact of their disease on work, emotions, and relationships. Overall, 42% of patients had never discussed treatment goals with their health care provider. Patients who were dissatisfied with their current treatment reported that incomplete relief of skin symptoms and joint symptoms were the primary reasons for dissatisfaction.

“This interim analysis highlights the need for patient education, productive patient-HCP dialogue, and shared decision-making in optimal disease management,” concluded the study authors.

Reference
Armstrong A, Bohannan B, Mburu S, et al. Impact of psoriatic disease on quality of life: interim results of a global survey. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). Published online March 14, 2022. doi:10.1007/s13555-022-00695-0