While extensive research exists on general psoriasis, there is a critical gap in understanding its unique characteristics in special body areas such as the scalp, nails, palms, and genitals. These areas, though small in surface area, significantly impact patients’ physical and psychosocial well-being. Up to 67% of patients with psoriasis have involvement in special body areas, with nails, scalp, and palms being the most common sites.
A study conducted using data from the Chinese Psoriasis Standardized Diagnosis and Treatment Center between January 2020 and September 2021 involved 346 patients, 81% of whom had psoriasis in at least two special areas. Patients with genital psoriasis reported higher Dermatology Life Quality Index scores and were more likely to also have scalp and palmoplantar psoriasis. The study revealed that the use of biologics increased significantly with the number of special areas involved, highlighting the need for targeted treatment approaches. This research underscores the importance of understanding the specific characteristics and treatment needs of psoriasis in special body areas to improve patient care.
Reference: Gao Y, Li C, Tong M, Hu Y, Li Y. Characterization of psoriasis patients in special body areas: real-world evidence from the Chinese Psoriasis Standardized Diagnosis and Treatment Center. J Dermatolog Treat. 2024;35(1):2337264. doi: 10.1080/09546634.2024.2337264.
Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09546634.2024.2337264#abstract
