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Gender differences in psoriasis: a Swiss online psoriasis survey
Carla Murer1,2, David Sgier1,2, Sofia Kyonhi Mettler1,2
1Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 31, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland.
Archives of Dermatological Research
|April 14, 2020
Summary
Psoriasis-related itching (pruritus) significantly impacts quality of life, especially for women. This study found women experience more pruritus and report lower treatment satisfaction than men with psoriasis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Patient-reported outcomes
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Psoriasis is often perceived as non-pruritic by physicians, contrasting with patient experiences.
- Pruritus is a highly bothersome symptom for individuals with psoriasis, significantly affecting quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors affecting psoriasis patients.
- To evaluate gender differences in psoriasis symptom experience and treatment satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous online survey with 24 questions was distributed via the Swiss Psoriasis and Vitiligo Patient Association website.
- Data from 1979 psoriasis patients collected between May 2016 and June 2017 were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Significantly more females (36%) than males (25.3%) reported psoriatic pruritus (p≤0.001).
- Pruritus was identified as the most life quality-limiting factor by 39.7% of patients.
- Female patients reported lower satisfaction with therapy compared to males (4.9% vs. 5.6%, p≤0.015).
Conclusions:
- Pruritus remains the most bothersome symptom in psoriasis patients.
- Women are disproportionately affected by pruritus, leading to reduced treatment satisfaction.
- Addressing pruritus is crucial for improving patient outcomes and satisfaction in psoriasis management.

