A prospective, interventional assessment of the impact of ustekinumab treatment on psoriasis-related work productivity and activity impairment

Abstract

Background: The negative impact of psoriasis on quality of life is well documented. Psoriasis is also associated with impairments in work productivity and daily activities. Objectives: This study was conducted to prospectively measure the impact of ustekinumab treatment on work productivity and daily activity impairments due to psoriasis, using the Work Productivity and Activity Index: Psoriasis instrument. Methods: Thirty-two patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis received 36 weeks of ustekinumab and were followed every 4 weeks. During each visit, patients were evaluated using the Psoriasis Area Severity Index and Work Productivity and Activity Index: Psoriasis instrument. Results: Thirty-two patients completed the study. There was no change in unemployment rate after treatment. Twenty-two patients who were employed at both baseline and week 36 experienced a significant decrease in total work productivity impairment, presenteeism and a non-significant decrease in absenteeism. All patients demonstrated significant reduction in total activity impairment. Limitations: This study was limited by the lack of a placebo group and a small sample size. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the benefits of ustekinumab treatment in terms of reducing psoriasis-related work productivity and activity impairments among patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis.