[Physician and patient perception of disease severity, quality of life, and treatment satisfaction in psoriasis: an observational study in Spain].

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to determine the impact of psoriasis on patient quality of life, to analyze differences in perception between patients and physicians regarding quality of life, treatment satisfaction, and patient needs, and to assess the physician-patient relationship.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A multicenter, observational, cross-sectional study was undertaken in which a representative group of dermatologists-working in hospitals and outpatient clinics throughout Spain-and their patients with a diagnosis of psoriasis completed specifically designed questionnaires. The questionnaires covered patient demographics, disease characteristics, impact of the disease on quality of life, treatment of psoriasis, and the relationship between patient and dermatologist.

RESULTS

A total of 151 dermatologists from throughout Spain included a mean of 5 patients each. The analysis included 771 questionnaires completed by dermatologists and 732 completed by patients. Two-thirds of patients had moderate-to-severe psoriasis with a major impact on quality of life, particularly in relation to emotional wellbeing. Nevertheless, quality of life was only assessed routinely and systematically by 19.9% of dermatologists. Overall, 47% of patients reported being quite satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment they received. No significant differences were observed between patients and dermatologists on the aspects analyzed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results highlight the substantial impact of psoriasis on patient quality of life and the consequent need for systematic quality-of-life assessment in affected patients. Patients reported a high level of satisfaction with the care provided by dermatologists and the treatment received. There was good agreement between patients and dermatologists in their assessment of the variables analyzed.