Childhood psoriasis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pediatrics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Psoriasis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition with limited recent data on pediatric cases.
• Epidemiology, comorbidities, and therapeutic strategies for childhood psoriasis require further investigation.
• Psoriasis affects up to 2% of children in Europe, appearing even in infancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current understanding of pediatric psoriasis, including epidemiology, clinical presentation, comorbidities, and treatment.
• To highlight the specific characteristics of psoriasis in children compared to adults.
• To emphasize the impact of psoriasis on children's social interactions and the need for management guidelines.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on pediatric psoriasis.
• Analysis of epidemiological data, clinical features, and associated comorbidities.
• Evaluation of current and potential therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

• Childhood psoriasis shares similarities with adult forms but has distinct features like neonatal diaper rash, facial involvement, and guttate psoriasis.
• Metabolic comorbidities, particularly obesity, are increasingly linked to pediatric psoriasis.
• Psoriasis significantly impacts children's social interactions, necessitating effective management strategies.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric psoriasis has unique clinical manifestations and is associated with metabolic comorbidities.
• Topical treatments are primary for limited disease; phototherapy and systemic biologics are options for severe cases.
• Developing international guidelines is crucial for optimal management of children with psoriasis.