Original Article

Assessment of dermatological quality of life & prevalence of anxiety & depression among patients with psoriasis


Author Details

1. Dr. Fatamatuz Zohura Antora, Consultant, Medix (United Health Care), Dhaka, Bangladesh.

2. Dr. Md. Tauhidur Rahman, Junior Consultant, 250 Beded General Hospital, Jashore, Bangladesh.

3. Dr. Sadia Rubana Nila, Registrar, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Community Based Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.

4. Dr. Sazia Afrin, Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Bangladesh Medical College and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

5. Dr. Jaheda Akter, Junior Consultant, Chattogram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College, Chattogram, Bangladesh.

6. Dr. Md. Jobayer Hossain Taraq, Emergency Medical Office, Mirsharari Upazila Health Complex, Chattogram, Bangladesh.

7. Dr. Md. Rahmat Ullah Siddique, Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Bangaladesh Medical University (BMU).


Abstract

Background: Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition with significant physical and psychological impacts, is influenced by stress and emotional disturbances that exacerbate disease progression and burden.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the quality of life, prevalence of anxiety and depression among psoriatic patients, and their correlation with disease severity to inform early psychological intervention.

Methods: A six-month cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Dermatology & Venereology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, involving 100 psoriasis patients. Ethical approval was secured, and informed consent obtained. Patients were clinically evaluated, and relevant data were collected using standardized scales including the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Data analysis was performed using SPSS 20.

Results: The mean age was 39.88±15.73 years, with a male predominance (60%) and 63% from rural areas. PASI scores showed 42% moderate, 30% severe, and 28% mild involvement. DLQI scores indicated moderate impact on 35%, extremely large impact on 33%, and small impact on 16%, while 10% and 6% experienced very large and no effects, respectively. HADS revealed 59% with definite anxiety/depression, 34% borderline cases, and 7% normal. Statistical analysis showed significant associations between PASI and DLQI scores (r=0.58, p<0.05) and between PASI and HADS scores (r=0.52, p<0.05), demonstrating that disease severity correlates with worsening quality of life and mental health.

Conclusion: Psoriasis severity adversely affects quality of life and mental health. Early psychological intervention and comprehensive care are recommended.

Keywords: Psoriasis, Quality of Life, Anxiety, Depression, Disease Severity


Keywords: Psoriasis, Quality Of Life, Anxiety, Depression, Disease Severity

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