Correlating the Dermatology Life Quality Index with psychiatric measures: A systematic review

Skin conditions may have a major impact on the psychologic well-being of patients, ranging from depression to anxiety. The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) is the most commonly used quality of life tool in dermatology, though it has yet to be correlated with psychiatric measures used in clinical therapeutic trials. We conducted a systematic review to determine whether there is any correlation between the DLQI and psychiatric measure scores, potentially allowing the DLQI to be used as a surrogate measure for depression or psychiatric screening. Six databases were searched using the following keywords: "DLQI," "Dermatology Life Quality Index," "Psych*," "depression," "anxiety," "stress," and "trial*." All randomized trials where full DLQI and psychiatric scores were provided were included. PRISMA guidelines were followed. In all, 462 records were screened, but only seven met inclusion criteria. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was the most commonly used psychiatric measure; the "depression" component score changes correlated strongly with the DLQI (r = 0.715). There needs to be guidance on psychiatric measurement and reporting in clinical trials. Although the DLQI correlated well with the "depression" domain of the HADS scale, interviews and screening for depression are still vital for full assessment of patient psychologic well-being.