Factors associated with patient-reported importance of skin clearance among adults with psoriasis and atopic dermatitis

Background

Factors that are associated with patient-reported importance of obtaining complete or almost complete clearance of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD) are unknown.

Objectives

To investigate the importance of and factors associated with obtaining complete or almost complete clearance of psoriasis or AD.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 4016 and 3842 adults with psoriasis and AD.

Results

Patients with AD reported significantly greater importance of almost complete or complete skin clearance compared with patients with psoriasis. For both patient groups, almost complete was more important that complete skin clearance. Increasing disease severity and itch and skin pain were significantly associated with perceived importance of skin clearance for patients with both diseases. AD and psoriasis located on the face or neck and psoriasis located on the palms, soles, or genitals were significantly associated with patient-perceived importance of almost complete skin clearance. Only 7% and 27% of patients with severe AD and psoriasis, respectively, were currently receiving a systemic therapy.

Limitations

Specific reasons for infrequent use of systemic treatments was not examined.

Conclusion

Patients with psoriasis or AD expressed a strong request for almost complete or complete skin clearance. Patient education and effective therapies should be used to reduce disease severity.