Stigmatization among Patients with Plaque Psoriasis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Psychosocial Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Plaque psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with significant psychosocial burden.
• Stigmatization is a known consequence of psoriasis, impacting patients' quality of life and well-being.
• Understanding demographic and clinical factors influencing psoriasis stigma is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the level of stigmatization in plaque psoriasis patients.
• To analyze the relationship between demographic and clinical characteristics and feelings of stigmatization.
• To identify specific domains of stigma affected by patient attributes.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 122 plaque psoriasis patients.
• Utilized the 6-item and 33-item Feelings of Stigmatization Questionnaire.
• Collected sociodemographic data and clinical information on lesion distribution.

Main Results:

• Mean stigmatization scores were 6.4 (6-item scale) and 81.3 (33-item scale).
• Female patients reported higher levels of stigmatization than males.
• Rural residents experienced greater stigma in 'Sensitivity to Others' Attitudes' and 'Secretiveness' domains.
• Widespread psoriatic lesions correlated with stigma in the 'Positive Attitudes' domain.
• A significant difference was observed in the 'feeling of being flawed' domain (mean score 13.4).

Conclusions:

• Stigmatization is a prevalent issue among plaque psoriasis patients.
• Demographic factors (sex, location) and clinical factors (lesion extent) significantly influence psoriasis-related stigma.
• Addressing psoriasis stigma requires a comprehensive approach beyond clinical management, considering psychosocial impacts.