Clinical Profile of Patients with Psoriasis and their Attitude Towards the Illness

Abstract

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory hyperproliferative disease of the skin and affects 0.6–4.8% of the world’s population. In addition to the skin and joint manifestations, psoriasis impairs many aspects of individual wellbeing, including emotional, physical, sexual, and financial status. Skin diseases such as psoriasis can profoundly influence a patient’s self-image, self-esteem, and sense of wellbeing. This study aimed to assess the clinical profile of patients with psoriasis and their attitude towards living with the disease. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was used. Two hundred subjects diagnosed with psoriasis were recruited through purposive sampling. A structured proforma was used to assess the clinical profile and attitude was assessed by Psoriasis Attitude Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ). Results: The most common type of psoriasis was chronic stable psoriasis (86.5%). A family history of psoriasis was present in 30 (15.0%) subjects. Stress was attributed to the exacerbation of disease in 90 (45.0%) subjects. Itching was reported by 124 (62.0%) subjects, and sleep disturbance was reported by 85 (42.5%) of the subjects. The majority of individuals (n: 187; 93.5%) had a moderately favourable attitude towards living with psoriasis. Conclusion: Living with psoriasis can be difficult for patients because of the inconvenience caused by the disease in their daily life. Knowledge about the pathogenesis and treatment of psoriasis may increase the patient’s perception of control and attention to aggravating factors may increase patient’s compliance with treatment and positive lifestyle habits.