Correlation between Psoriasis Area Severity Index and Dermatology Life Quality Index in Patients of Psoriasis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction:Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that affects both the physical and social aspects of a patient’s life. The disease's severity, as measured by the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI), can significantly impact the patient’s quality of life, which can be calculated using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

Objectives: To assess the correlation between PASI and DLQI in patients with clinically proven psoriasis, describe the impact of psoriasis on quality of life among study participants, and explore the relationship.

Materials and Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted over three months, including 45 psoriasis patients at the Dermatology Department in a tertiary care hospital. Demographic data, disease severity, and quality of life were assessed using the PASI and DLQI, respectively. Data was analysed using SPSS, and Spearman's correlation was employed to determine the relationship between PASI and DLQI.

Results:The mean PASI score was 8.4 (±3.6), while the mean DLQI score was 11.2 (±4.7). There was a significant positive correlation between PASI and DLQI (r=0.639, p<0.0001) in males, but the correlation in females was weaker and not statistically significant. Younger patients (under 30 years) and those with longer disease duration also showed a substantial correlation between PASI and DLQI.

Conclusion:A strong correlation between PASI and DLQI was observed, particularly in males and patients with more extensive disease. The DLQI may not fully capture the disease burden in female patients and older individuals, suggesting the need for more culturally and gender-relevant tools for assessing the quality of life in psoriasis patients.