Stigmatization in Patients With Psoriasis: A Mini Review.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Psychosocial Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Psoriasis is a chronic immune-related skin disease causing disfigurement and disability.
• Visible lesions and public misunderstanding lead to significant stigma for psoriasis patients.
• Stigma negatively affects mental health, quality of life, and treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review questionnaires and scales used for evaluating stigmatization in psoriasis patients.
• To summarize recent advances in understanding psoriasis-related stigma.
• To identify areas for future research on psoriasis stigmatization.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies evaluating stigmatization in psoriasis.
• Analysis of commonly used questionnaires: Feelings of Stigmatization Questionnaire, Questionnaire on Experience with Skin Complaints, and 6-item Stigmatization Scale.
• Investigation of associations between sociodemographic factors, disease variables, psychiatric disorders, quality of life, and stigmatization.

Main Results:

• Several validated questionnaires effectively measure psoriasis stigmatization.
• Established relationships between patient characteristics, disease severity, mental health, quality of life, and perceived stigma.
• Identified key areas for further investigation, including predictors and coping mechanisms for stigma.

Conclusions:

• Managing psoriasis stigma requires a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals, policymakers, and patients.
• Further research should explore predictors of stigma, non-patient perspectives, biologic impacts, and coping strategies.
• Addressing stigma is crucial for improving the overall well-being and treatment adherence of psoriasis patients.