THE HEARTBREAK OF PSORIASIS: IMPACT ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Chronic disfiguring nature of psoriasis results in a significant psychological impact on the patient. “Heartbreak of Psoriasis” is a phrase commonly used to refer to the emotional distress in addition to the physical stress of the disease. The aim of the current study was to identify the variables affecting the quality of life (QoL) and correlating them with clinical severity of psoriasis. In a hospital based cross-sectional study, 70 patients of psoriasis diagnosed clinically, were studied. The extent of disease severity and the health-related quality of life were assessed using PASI and psoriasis disability index (PDI) respectively, the latter was suitably modified and a version in the local language, Hindi, was also provided. The clinical PASI scores correlated significantly with the extent of impact of psoriasis on physical disability, along with individual aspects of PDI (except work/school – related activities and personal relationships). We also noticed a decreasing trend in mean PDI as the age increased. The hindi PDI is an acceptable, reliable and valid measure of psychological distress in these patients. The study provides compelling data to improve physician’s awareness regarding the clinical variables affecting patient’s QoL and thus adopting a more holistic approach including psychological measures.