Dermatology Patients Research Articles

Potentially traumatic events, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and skin-related quality of life among adults with self-reported skin disease symptoms.

The connection between stress and skin disease has been extensively documented; however, there are no empirical studies investigating the incidence of traumatic event exposure and posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms among dermatology patients. To address this gap in the literature and begin to understand the associations between PTS symptoms and skin disease symptoms, this study used a sample of adults with self-reported skin disease symptoms to examine: (1) rates of potentially traumatic event (PTE) exposure and PTS symptoms; and (2) the association between PTS symptoms and skin-related quality of life, controlling for relevant covariates. Data were collected online through Cloud Research, and participants completed a battery of self-report measures. The sample included 310 participants (68.4% female) who endorsed current skin disease symptoms. Results indicated that 47.1% of participants endorsed clinical levels of PTS symptoms. Consistent with hypotheses, greater levels of PTS symptoms were associated with worse skin-related quality of life, and this association was particularly robust for arousal-related symptoms. Results shed light on the occurrence of trauma-related experiences among individuals with self-reported skin disease and indicate a link between PTS symptoms and the perceived burden of skin disease symptoms on daily living. However, this study was cross-sectional and relied on self-report measures; therefore, findings should be interpreted with caution, particularly since diagnoses could not be verified. Replication of this work in dermatology patients is needed to further understand these connections.

JAK inhibitor adverse event profiles in dermatology patients: the experience of two academic medical centers.

JAK inhibitors (JAKi) are increasingly being utilized for both FDA-approved and off-label treatments in dermatology. However, JAKi carry a black box warning concerning major side effects, including serious infections, cardiovascular events, thrombosis, malignancy, and mortality. Given that there is an absence of large-scale studies examining the adverse event (AE) profile of multiple JAKi for dermatologic conditions in real-world settings, our study aimed to bridge this gap by evaluating AEs of dermatology patients on oral JAKi at two academic medical centers.

Stigmatization and perceived health status in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa: an observational multicenter study in Europe.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can severely affect the quality of life (QoL) and is linked to psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and reduced self-esteem. Stigmatization due to physical appearance may significantly contribute to the psychological burden and impact on QoL for HS patients. This study investigates the association between stigmatization, depression, anxiety, and health- and disease-related variables among HS patients in Europe. This observational cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted across 22 dermatological outpatient clinics in 17 European countries. Data collected included sociodemographic variables, general health variables, disease-related variables, perceived stigmatization (PSQ), and mental health (PHQ-2, GAD-2). Of the 5487 dermatological patients, 142 (2.6%) were diagnosed with HS, and data from 135 patients (70.1% women, mean age 38.2 years) who completed the PSQ questionnaire were analyzed. Scores on the stigmatization measure indicated that significant stigmatization levels were present in the sample. Linear regression models revealed a significant relationship between stigmatization and both the duration of HS and the presence of itch. Similar findings were noted for the PSQ "confused/staring behavior" scale with depression. The PSQ "absence of friendly behavior" scale was inversely associated with general health status, whereas the "hostile behavior" scale was positively linked to depression. HS patients experience significant stigmatization linked to disease duration, itch, and depression. Comprehensive management, including screening for psychosocial co-morbidity, is essential, as is providing access to psychological interventions that support patients to both manage internal distress and the potential reactions of others.

The Impact of acne on the mental health of women and young adults, a case-control multicenter study of 300 patients in Lomé, Togo, West Africa

Background: This study explores the relationship between acne and anxiety, both common health issues among young adults. Acne, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, can significantly impact an individual's self-esteem and quality of life. Anxiety, characterized by feelings of imminent danger and distress, often exacerbates this impact. While the association between acne and anxiety has been well-studied in developed countries, research in Africa, particularly in Togo, is limited. Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted over eight months, from July 2017 to February 2018, in three public dermatology clinics in Lomé, Togo. The study included 300 acne patients, matched with 600 controls based on age (±5 years) and gender. Data were collected through structured interviews, clinical examinations, and validated questionnaires like the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) for anxiety assessment. Results: Out of 4,126 dermatology patients, 300 (7.3%) consulted for acne, with young adults representing the majority. The study found a significant correlation between acne and anxiety, with a higher prevalence of anxiety among acne patients compared to the control group. Conclusion: The findings highlight the psychological burden and mental health impact of acne in young adults in general and of women, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to acne treatment that includes mental health support integrated in dermatologic treatment. Further research is recommended to explore this relationship in different African cultural contexts.

“Sick of the Jab!”: Immunization Barriers in an Immunosuppressed Dermatology Cohort

A study on immunosuppressed dermatology patients revealed significant vaccine hesitancy and fatigue, particularly regarding COVID-19 boosters. Despite the increased risk of infections, more than half of the patients declined the booster, emphasizing the need for better communication and addressing vaccine concerns in this vulnerable group.

Роль и место медицинской информационной системы при оказании дерматологической помощи в частной медицинской организации

Dermatological diseases retain statistically significant positions in the structure of modern somatic pathology and are often characterized by severe medical and social consequences. The latter include an unreasonably high number of unsatisfactory treatment results, high level of expenses for diagnostics and treatment, low level of patient satisfaction. Taken together, this allows us to consider the comprehensive quality of dermatological care as a whole insufficient. Medical organizations in the private healthcare segment are no exception in this regard. One of the modern effective directions in improving the quality of a wide variety of types of medical care for the population is the widespread use of the so-called medical information systems (MIS). However, at the level of dermatological organizations in the private healthcare segment, this direction has not been practically worked out to date. Purpose of the study: improving the quality of dermatological care for the population in a private medical organization based on the development and implementation of a medical information system. Materials. The study included 2000 dermatological patients of a private medical organization. The control group (1000 people) consisted of patients in the period before the implementation, the main group (1000 people) – patients in the period after the implementation of the developed system. The duration of the compared periods was 2,5 years. Мethods. To obtain the results, the methods of objective examination, specialized patient questionnaires, simple and extended dermatoscopy, content analysis of medical documentation and databases of the medical organization, pharmacoeconomic analysis were used. The system of integrated assessment of the quality of medical care was applied. The methods of variation statistics were used to analyze the results. The exact level of statistical significance of differences in the results before and after the implementation of the developed MIS was calculated.. Subject. The study is at the intersection of two subject areas: «Organization of dermatological care for the population» and «Medical information systems». Results. As part of this study, a MIS was developed aimed at improving the organization of dermatological care for the population. The system was implemented in a medical organization in the private healthcare segment. The main results of such implementation were: an increase in the number of successful treatment results, the level of patient satisfaction with the quality of dermatological care, the level of its standardization, a decrease in direct economic costs for diagnostics and treatment. The integrated and comprehensive indicators of the quality of dermatological care have been increased.. Conclusion. Improving the quality of dermatological care for the population in a medical organization of the private healthcare segment based on the development and implementation of a medical information system has been achieved. The results obtained have a high level of statistical and medical-social significance.

Modulation of Plet1 expression by N-Acetylglucosamine through the IL-17A-MAPK pathway in an imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model.

Psoriasis (Ps) is a chronic inflammatory disorder marked by skin plaque formation, driven by immune dysregulation and genetic factors. Despite the available treatments, incidence of Ps is increasing in the dermatology patients. Novel strategies are crucial due to current treatment limitations. The interleukin 17 (IL-17) pathway is pivotal in Ps pathogenesis, however the expression of its putative target gene placenta expressed transcript 1 (Plet1) remains unstudied in Ps. Considering the potential anti-inflammatory properties of N-Acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), our study explored its role in modulating Plet1 expression in an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced Ps mouse model. Our data demonstarted a significant reduction of inflammation and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores, downregulation of growth factors (GFs), IL-17A, and MAPK expression after GlcNAc treatment. In addition, GlcNAc treatment reduced neutrophils, monocyte-dendritic cells (Mo-DC) and conventional T cells (Tcons) while increasing monocyte-macrophages (Mo-Macs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs). GlcNAc treatment also downregulated Plet1 overexpression in psoriatic mouse skin and in vitro, reduced proliferation and apoptosis in IL-17A stimulated human dermal fibroblasts (HDF), along with IL-17A and TGF-β mRNA expression. Together, these data suggest that, GlcNAc interferes with downstream mechanisms in IL-17 pathway and downregulating Plet1 expression, presenting a promising strategy for Ps treatment.

Presenting JAK inhibitor safety information to dermatology patients

AbstractJanus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors are treatment options for dermatologic conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, and alopecia areata. Guidance on how to counsel patients on these novel treatments is limited. The purpose of this review is to provide options providers can use to discuss JAK inhibitors with dermatology patients. The PubMed database was searched for terms including “dermatology JAK inhibitor safety” and “presenting information to patients.” Relevant literature was selected for inclusion. Black box warnings were placed on JAK inhibitors after a large, controlled trial in rheumatoid arthritis patients did not prove that tofacitinib was as safe as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors; in clinical trials for dermatologic conditions, JAK inhibitors had low risks of serious adverse events. Patient barriers to comprehending treatment information include conflicting information and limited time for discussion of risks. To address these barriers, suggested approaches have included speaking in simple phrases, providing reliable sources, and offering educational materials appropriate for different cultures. When discussing risks, physicians may use anecdotes and frame risks and side effects in ways that decrease anxiety. JAK inhibitors have uncommon severe side effects and related concerns that may be hard for patients to overcome, even when benefits exceed risks. Standard educational approaches can be complemented by anecdotes and framing to help diminish patients' anxiety.

Depression among Alopecia Areata Patients: Prevalence and associated factors in a Tunisian sample.

Introduction Alopecia areata (AA) is a common, chronic inflammatory, non-scarring form of hair loss affecting 0.1-0.2% of the population. It is a psychosomatic disease involving a T-cell-mediated immune reaction against hair follicle antigens during the anagen phase. Psychiatric morbidity in dermatological patients can significantly affect their quality of life and disease progression. Identifying and addressing these comorbidities in AA patients is crucial. Aim This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depression and its associated factors among patients diagnosed with alopecia areata (AA). Methods The present study is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study conducted at Farhat Hached Hospital in Sousse, Tunisia, during the period from August to December 2019. Participants were recruited from the Dermatology Outpatient Department. The questionnaire covered socio-demographic characteristics, personal and family history, AA history, clinical presentation, disease severity (SALT score), nail involvement, and depression assessment using the Hamilton Depression Scale (validated Arabic version). Results A total of 60 AA patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 37.6 ± 12.9 years. Females exhibited a predominant representation, with a male to female ratio (M/F) of 0.76. According to the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D), 31 cases (51.7%) were depressed, with a mean depression scale score of 11.33 (±6.57 SD). The presence of depression was significantly associated with younger age (p=0.018), the presence of the eyelashes/eyebrows form (p=0.035), nail involvement (p= 0.03), and a poor response to treatment (p=0.004). Conclusion Our research highlights the importance of providing psychological support to alopecia areata patients.

Clinico-epidemiological profile of dermatology patients: a one-year study at a newly established tertiary care centre in India

Background: Dermatology is predominantly an outpatient specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of dermatoses affecting the skin. We conducted a study on the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients attending the outpatient clinic to better understand the clinico-epidemiological profile and to predict morbidity patterns within the specific geographical region. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted over the past year, encompassing all patients who visited the outpatient dermatology clinic at AIIMS, Raebareli. The study systematically documented a range of dermatoses, including disorders affecting the skin, hair, and nails. Results: A total of 4,188 patients were included in the study, comprising 2,681 (64%) adults, 978 (23.4%) geriatric patients, and 529 (12.6%) pediatric patients. Among these, 1,311 patients primarily suffered from infections, followed by 752 patients with dermatitis. Of those with infections, 1,024 (78%) were diagnosed with fungal infections, while scabies was observed in 126 patients (9.6%). In the adult group, 756 (28.2%) patients had infections, while 429 (16%) patients were affected by dermatitis. Similar patterns were observed in both the geriatric and pediatric groups, with infections being the most prevalent, affecting 214 and 341 patients, respectively. Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that infections, particularly fungal infections, are the most prevalent dermatological conditions across all age groups in the population studied. Dermatitis also emerged as a significant concern, particularly among adult patients. The high prevalence of infectious dermatoses, especially in geriatric and pediatric patients, highlights the need for targeted public health interventions and preventive measures.

Unveiling the Effectiveness of Multi-Classification Algorithms: A Comprehensive Investigation

Multi classes portray alishead to a ton of genuine computer-based intelligence applications that need the ability to perceive numerous different classes immediately. In multiclass arrangement issues, we really want to manage multiple classes which imply the calculation which we are utilizing ought to be equipped for working with different classes. The rear different models accessible for this and a few strategies are likewise accessible that can make support vector machines and Calculated relapse equipped for managing multiple classes. In this examination paper, we present a multiclass grouping strategy from AI (ML) to foresee the six classes of Dermatology sickness expectation. In particular, the One-Refrains One (OVO) and One-Sections Rest (OVR) systems are assessed under Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Logistic Regression (LR) calculations. The current review intends store cognize fitting finding class for dermatology patients through building a multi-class expectation model. Our exploratory outcomes showed that the overall model is LR under the OVR technique accomplishing the most noteworthy Exactness 98.2% when contrasted with LR with OVO and SVM with OVR strategy accomplishing normal precision when contrasted with OVO. This proposed model shows the similar and promising outcomes that can upgrade the expectation execution model formulate classification.

Fungal Infections in Immunocompromised Dermatology Patients: A Clinical and Microbiological Study

Fungal Infections in Immunocompromised Dermatology Patients: A Clinical and Microbiological Study

Hidradenitis suppurativa and female infertility: a pilot study conducted amongst 110 dermatological patients

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with severe consequences on quality of life. One aspect of this is that HS has been linked to an increased risk of infertility, but as data is still limited, it is not known if the association reflects causality. We performed a cross-sectional study of 161 female participants included at Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark. Data regarding basic demographics, infertility, pregnancies, sexual function, and known factors with impact on fertility was collected. Logistic regressions were performed to analyze the association between HS and infertility, adjusting for factors that influence fertility. The study population consisted of 55 patients with HS, 55 patients with other dermatological diseases (ODD), and 51 healthy controls (HC). The HS group had a higher BMI, lower sexual function, and a higher tobacco use. We found no significant difference between the three groups in terms of whether they had children, the number of children they had, infertility, or whether they had received fertility treatments. The logistic analyses found no correlation between HS and infertility, and adjusting for factors affecting infertility did not alter this result. This study did not find a significant difference in infertility between patients with HS compared to those with ODD or HC. This result was not affected by adjustments for other factors known to influence fertility. Interestingly, the lower sexual function in the HS group did not appear to influence their desire or ability to conceive.

The Importance of Social Support in the Occurrence of Mental Disorders in Patients Suffering from Psoriasis Vulgaris

Psoriasis represents a global issue affecting approximately 1% of the Caucasian population, contributing not only to aesthetic concerns but also to stigmatization, social isolation, and an overall decline in quality of life. The chronic inflammatory state in the patient's body predisposes them to a higher susceptibility to anxiety and depressive disorders. Novel treatment methods, particularly monoclonal antibodies, may serve as a bridge between physical and psychological benefits. The research addresses the issues of psychological disorders in patients with common psoriasis and explores the impact of various dimensions of social support on the course of the disease. Topics covered include the etiopathogenesis of psoriasis, the connection between this dermatosis and an increased frequency of psychological disorders, as well as the bidirectional relationship between both disease entities. Four studies, encompassing clinical, demographic, and psychosocial variables, underwent analysis. Each study description includes statistical analysis, operationalization of variables, and a section dedicated to drawing conclusions. In the discussion section, a strong correlation between social support and the psychological state of dermatological patients is demonstrated. An integrated approach to the therapeutic process and the benefits of a holistic approach to issues related to chronic inflammatory diseases are also discussed. The theory of bidirectional relations between psoriasis and depression opens new possibilities for clinicians and psychologists. The work emphasizes that utilizing proven stress coping strategies based on various dimensions of social support can be a significant protective factor against psychological disorders associated with psoriasis. These actions have the potential to impact not only the psychological well-being of the patient but also to reduce the severity of skin symptoms. In light of this hypothesis, the study emphasizes the implementation of effective coping strategies in challenging situations, contributing to the improvement of the quality of life for patients with common psoriasis.

The Prevalence of Demodex spp. Infestation in Dermatological Patients in Northern Poland.

The presence of Demodex spp. mites on the skin is a common phenomenon in the human population. In most people, it is an asymptomatic infestation, but in some patients, it can contribute to the occurrence of diseases such as demodicosis, rosacea, or blepharitis, as well as non-specific symptoms. In this study, the results of tests assessing the presence of Demodex spp. by direct microscopic examination (DME) in 2508 patients from northern Poland with the suspicion of demodicosis were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 3684 tests were performed. Among them, only 1585 (43.02%) revealed the presence of Demodex spp., while 2099 (56.98%) were negative. It was shown that in the analyzed population of patients with clinical suspicion of demodicosis, the degree of confirmation of the presence of Demodex spp. positively correlated with the patient's age (p = 0.001) and the mite was mainly found on the edges of eyelids and on the facial skin. Additionally, in men, the presence of Demodex was more often confirmed than in women (p = 0.004). In conclusion, the proper diagnosis of demodicosis still constitutes an important clinical problem due to the non-specificity of symptoms and the low confirmation of clinical suspicions of infestation by DME, especially in lower age groups.

Anxiety, depression and quality of life in dermatology patients at a tertiary care hospital.

To compare the anxiety, depression and health-related quality of life of dermatology patients with healthy individuals in a tertiary care setting. The case-control study was conducted at the Pak-Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from April to September 2022, and comprised adult outpatients and inpatients with diagnosed skin diseases. They were designated as group A, while healthy adults who did not suffer from any dermatological condition formed control group B. Data was collected using a questionnaire which in addition to demographic characteristics, comprised the Dermatology Life Quality Index and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Data was analysed using SPSS 21. Of the 200 subjects with mean age 30.21±12.09 years, 100(50%) were in group A; 75(75%) males and 25(25%) females with mean age 32.56±13.49 years. The remaining 100(50%) subjects were in group B; 75(75%) males and 25(25%) females with mean age 27.86±10.02. In group A, 71(71%) were outpatients and 29(29%) were inpatients. Quality of life and depression scores were significantly different between inpatients in group A and group B (p<0.05). The difference was significant between outpatients in group A and group B in all categories (p<0.05). Dermatological diseases had a significant impact on the daily life and psychological health of patients.

The connection between mental health and dermatology: Exposing the links between psychiatric disorders and dermatopathies

Introduction: Due to the complexity of the interactions between psychiatric disorders and dermatopathies, the relationship between mental health and dermatology has been increasingly recognized. In order to provide unrestricted care to patients and create effective therapeutic methods, it is essential to understand these links. Methods: A systematic literature review was carried out with the aim of identifying recent studies that examined the relationship between mental health and dermatology. These studies focused on the relationship between psychiatric disorders and dermatopathies in adults. The articles chosen were examined thoroughly to find patterns, underlying factors and clinical implications. Results: The studies reviewed showed a bidirectional relationship between dermatology and mental health. Dermatopathies were associated with a higher risk of developing psychiatric problems such as depression and anxiety. On the other hand, dermatological conditions can cause the onset or worsening of mental health problems. Psychosocial factors, such as stress and low self-esteem, also influence this. Conclusion: The description of the relationship between dermatology and mental health highlights the need for an integrated approach to treating patients. The results of the review show that interventions for dermatological conditions must take into account both physical and emotional aspects in order to improve patients' quality of life and achieve better clinical outcomes. In addition, properly identifying and treating dermatological patients' mental health problems is essential for a complete and effective approach to caring for these patients.

51261 Wait Times and Healthcare Utilization Among Refugee Patients in Dermatology: A Retrospective Chart Review

51261 Wait Times and Healthcare Utilization Among Refugee Patients in Dermatology: A Retrospective Chart Review

Profile of Shingles Patients in Outpatient Settings Dermatology and Venereology

Profile of Shingles Patients in Outpatient Settings Dermatology and Venereology

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices to Sunscreen Use among Dermatology Patients at University Hospital Amman, Jordan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and Aims: Skin cancer is a significant public health concern globally. Jordan’s location and high exposure to UV radiation have led to an increase in the incidence rate of skin cancer. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of patients to sunscreen use in one of the major hospitals in Jordan, and identify demographic factors associated with regular sunscreen use. Methodology: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at the dermatology clinic of Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan, from February 2, 2023 to March 6, 2023. The study included 397 participants recruited from the clinic’s waiting area. A validated survey questionnaire was used to collect data on demographics, previous skin cancer history, sunscreen allergies, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to sunscreen use. The data were analyzed using SPSS v. 26. Statistical significance was established at a p-value of &lt;0.05. Results: The majority of participants were female (67.0%) and aged 18–25 years (53.7%). Only 24.9% of participants reported using sunscreen regularly, while 34.0% reported never using it. Participants with higher education levels and income were more likely to use sunscreen regularly. The main sources of sunscreen recommendations were family and friends (48.1%), followed by dermatologists (32.7%). The most common reason for not using sunscreen was forgetfulness (40.1%). Conclusion: The study revealed that knowledge and practices related to sunscreen use among Jordanian dermatology patients are insufficient, and that there is a need for increased patient education regarding the importance of sunscreen use.