OBJECTIVES Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease leading to psychological impacts and impairment on quality of life for patients. This study aims to investigate the psychological impact, quality of life (QoL) and economic burden of psoriasis in China.

METHODS : A cross-sectional survey was conducted in adult psoriasis patients in China from July to September 2018. Patients who meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited through the online-platform of psoriasis patient mutual assistance network, and filled the online questionnaire about the psychosocial impacts, direct and indirect cost in the past year. Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scale was used to assess the quality of life relating to psoriasis. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted and analyses was stratified by DLQI level with comparisons made using the suitable tests.

RESULTS : A total of 497 psoriasis patients were recruited in this study covering 8 geographic regions across China. The annual total expenditure of patients due to psoriasis accounted for 29.7±28.4% (Mean±SD) of the income. The annual hospitalization rate was 21.3% and length of stay was 37.0 ±44.3 days . The annual sick leave was 46.1 ±85.4 days and the unemployment rate was 37.0%. 89.1% of patients reported psychological stress . Alarmingly, 34.0% patients had suicide intention and 4.6% had suicide behavior in the past year. The average DLQI score was 13.3±7.1. 61.8% of the patients reported a severe or extremely severe impact of psoriasis on QoL (DLQI>10) and 38.2% patients reported mild or moderate impact on QoL (DLQI≤10). Comparing to the patients with DLQI≤10, patient group with DLQI>10 presented significant higher (P<0.01) disease burden for most variables.

CONCLUSIONS : Psoriasis impose heavy economic burden, psychological morbidity and large impairment on quality of life for psoriasis patient in China. At the meanwhile, the patient with DLQI>10 have significant higher burden of psoriasis.