Quality of Life in Patients with Psoriasis: a Systematic Literature Review

Data on physical, psychological, and social functioning of patients with psoriasis have been presented in many studies. The introduction of quality-of-life questionnaires has made it possible to systematically compare these data across studies. The aim of this study was to present an overview of quality-of-life data and to describe the relationship between demographic and clinical variables and quality of life in patients with psoriasis. Computerized bibliographic databases were screened for publications from January 1966 to April 2000. Predefined selection criteria were used to identify quality-of-life studies in psoriasis. Two investigators independently assessed and, subsequently, agreed on inclusion. Data were extracted on the objectives, methods, sample characteristics, and results of the studies. A total of 118 publications were found. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. Patients with psoriasis reported physical discomfort, impaired emotional functioning, a negative body and self-image, and limitations in daily activities, social contacts and (skin-exposing) activities, and work. More severe psoriasis was associated with lower levels of quality of life. There was a tendency that higher age was associated with slightly lower levels of physical functioning and slightly higher levels of psychological functioning and overall quality of life. Sex and quality of life were found to be unrelated.