Impact of Adult Psoriasis on Caregiver’s Quality of Life: Role of Caregiver Sex and Patient Special Area Involvement

Chalermkwan Apinuntham; Chayada Chaiyabutr; Narumol Silpa-archa; Chanisada Wongpraparut; Kanokvalai Kulthanan; Leena Chularojanamontri

Authors

Chalermkwan Apinuntham Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9965-6071
Chayada Chaiyabutr Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3161-5206
Narumol Silpa-archa Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1678-5442
Chanisada Wongpraparut Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9014-3229
Kanokvalai Kulthanan Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7618-821X
Leena Chularojanamontri Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6625-6445

Keywords:

Family Dermatology Life Quality Index, psoriasis, quality of life, gender, special area involvement

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis has an impact on both the patient’s life and on family members, particularly those who serve as primary caregivers. To study the impact of psoriasis on the quality of life (QoL) of caregivers using the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI) and exploring factors associated with it.

Materials and methods: Adult patients with psoriasis were matched 1:1 with a caregiver or family member– defined as the primary person who regularly cares for the patient, lives in the same household, and is actively involved in daily care. Demographic data and FDLQI scores were collected.

Results: Fifty-two patients with psoriasis and 52 caregivers/family members were enrolled. Most of the patients were cared for by a first-degree relative (57.7%) or a spouse (34.6%), followed by other relatives (3.8%) and cohabitants (3.8%). Psoriasis had the greatest impact on caregiver QoL in the areas of time spent caring for the patient’s skin (1.6 ± 1.1 points), extra housework (1.4 ± 1.2 points), and household expenditure (1.2 ± 1.0 points). However, there were no significant differences between female and male caregivers in any of the items of the FDLQI. The FDLQI score was significantly associated with patients’ QoL (r=0.59, p <0.01) and the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score (r=0.50, p <0.01), and body surface area involvement (r=0.47, p <0.01). Furthermore, caregivers of patients with psoriasis that affects the scalp (p=0.001), face (p=0.005), nails (p<0.001) and intertriginous area (p=0.032) had significantly higher median FDLQI scores compared to those without psoriasis in these areas.

Conclusion: This study found that the severity of disease, the QoL of patients, and the psoriasis affecting special areas all significantly impact the QoL of caregivers. However, no significant differences were observed based on caregiver sex. Understanding these impacts is important to achieve the best outcome for patients with psoriasis.

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