Study on the impact of depression on the quality of life of patients with psoriasis

Abstract

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic condition with a strong impact on the daily life of patients, especially in relationship life. This paper aims to clarify the impact of depression on the quality of life of patients with moderate psoriasis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 16 participants with psoriasis from April to May 2023. Patients with psoriasis vulgaris completed self-administered questionnaires which included demographic characteristics, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), and Dermatological Life Quality Index (DLQI). Data were collected both physically, during periodic checks, and online by email. Only 16 patients met the eligibility criteria for study entry. All patients included in the study had moderate psoriasis vulgaris. Exclusion criteria for participation in the study were current psychotropic medication use. severe comorbidities or chronic medical conditions and visual, auditory, linguistic, or cognitive impairments. Results: After completing the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) half of them 8 (50%) had a score lower than 8 (minimal depression) and the other half  8 (50%) between 8-16 (mild depression). 14 (87.5%) participants had a DLQI score of more than 10, indicating severe impairment in their quality of life. The results obtained showed a positive correlation between the Dermatological Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D). Conclusions: Depressive manifestations significantly influence the quality of life of psoriasis patients analyzed. A multidisciplinary approach in treating a patient with psoriasis is indispensable because it is not only necessary to manage a disease or a "case", but also to manage a patient.