Under the Skin: Improving the “Invisible” Symptoms of Psoriasis

For dermatologists, treating psoriasis often means addressing the inflamed, scaly skin plaques that are characteristic of this disease. However, the consequences of psoriasis range beyond the visible skin symptoms, and can impact normal daily functioning, well-being, emotional health, and interpersonal and intimate relationships.[1],[2]

Serious psychological and social burdens

People living with psoriasis can struggle with depression, suicidal ideation, suicide and social isolation due to insecurities about their body image.[3] In addition, people with psoriasis also experience stigmatization in their work and life due to the skin plaques and false beliefs that psoriasis is contagious.3 At #MyCompany, we’re committed to addressing the unmet needs of people living with psoriasis and are looking beyond just physical symptom relief—we’re also working to help improve the patients’ overall quality of life.

Psoriasis can also negatively impact interpersonal relationships, intimacy, and sexual health.3,[4],[5],[6] Psoriasis may contribute to sexual dysfunction among both men and women, which can impact more than 40 percent of those living with the disease.3 The effects of psoriasis on sexual health may be linked to the disease’s impact on physical appearance and associated feelings of embarrassment, decreased libido, and peeling skin, which can be caused by both the disease itself and unwanted side effects from topical treatments.3

Addressing wellbeing

At this year’s American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting, Janssen is presenting our research on patients living with moderate to severe psoriasis and how their disease and treatments effect patient-reported outcomes beyond skin symptoms.

It’s important not only to understand the devastating impact of psoriasis, but we must also evaluate the effect that treatments can have on sexuality and patients’ satisfaction. Our study showed an association between disease control of psoriasis and improvements in sexuality, stigmatization and patient satisfaction in their clinical response. Before receiving our therapy, we asked 239 patients if they agreed with the following statements: “I’m often / always afraid of sexual intercourse” and “People feel often / always sorry for me.” After receiving treatment for 28 weeks, fewer patients agreed with these statements, showing that overall, patient satisfaction, sexuality and stigmatization improved.

Researchers and providers must continue to investigate these important patient needs to help inform patient care and address the myriad of burdens people experience throughout their journey with psoriasis.

#AAD2023 #dermatology #psoriasis

References: 

[1] National Psoriasis Foundation. About Psoriasis. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis. Accessed March 2022.

[2] National Psoriasis Foundation. Life with Psoriasis. https://www.psoriasis.org/life-with-psoriasis/. Accessed March 2022.

[3] Duarte GV, Calmon H, Radel G, de Fátima Paim de Oliveira M. Psoriasis and sexual dysfunction: links, risks, and management challenges. Psoriasis (Auckl). 2018 Dec 10;8:93-99. https://doi.org/10.2147/PTT.S159916.

[4] Dalgard, F.J., Gieler, U., Tomas-Aragones, L., et al. The psychological burden of skin diseases: a cross-sectional multicenter study among dermatological out-patients in 13 European countries. J Invest Dermatol. 2015;135(4):984-991. https://doi.org/10.1038/jid.2014.530.

[5] Zill, J.M., Dirmaier, J., Augustin, M., et al. Psychosocial Distress of Patients with Psoriasis: Protocol for an Assessment of Care Needs and the Development of a Supportive Intervention. JMIR Res Protoc. 2018;7(2):e22. https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.8490.

[6] Kolli, S.S., et al. Psychosocial impact of psoriasis: a review for dermatology residents. Cutis. 2018 Nov;102(5S):21-25.