Dyadic and Sexual Functioning in Psoriasis: A Comparative Study in the Turkish Population

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with underrecognized psychological and interpersonal effects.
• The psychosocial burden of psoriasis extends beyond patients to their spouses.
• Assessing dyadic adjustment and sexual functioning is crucial for understanding the comprehensive impact of psoriasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate dyadic adjustment and sexual functioning in patients with psoriasis and their spouses.
• To compare these outcomes with healthy controls.
• To identify factors influencing sexual dysfunction in psoriasis patients.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving psoriasis patients (n=47), their spouses (n=40), and healthy controls (n=42).
• Utilized validated questionnaires including Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Short Form-12 (SF-12), Dyadic Adjustment Scale-Revised (RDAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX).

Main Results:

• High rates of sexual dysfunction were observed in patients (83%) and spouses (65%) compared to controls (50%).
• Patients and spouses reported significantly lower dyadic adjustment scores (RDAS) than controls.
• Depressive symptoms and disease duration were significant predictors of sexual dysfunction in psoriasis patients.

Conclusions:

• Psoriasis imposes a significant psychosocial burden on both patients and their partners.
• Sexual dysfunction and impaired dyadic adjustment are prevalent in psoriasis patients and their spouses.
• Integrating assessment of relational and sexual well-being into clinical care may enhance the overall quality of life for couples affected by psoriasis.