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| Authors | L M Azzopardi A Serracino Inglott M Zarb Adami V Magro |
| Abstract | Introduction: Psoriasis is a condition that impacts negatively on the quality of life of patients. Aim: To assess the quality of life (QoL) of Maltese psoriatic patients and the relative costs of treatment. Method: A prospective, cross-sectional study was carried out in psoriatic patients attending the out-patients dermatology clinic at Sir Paul Boffa Hospital. Three measurement instruments were used to generate QoL scores: the Short Form-36 (SF-36) as a general health index, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) as a general skin disease index, and the Psoriasis Disability Index (PDI) as a disease specific index. Data on psoriasis treatment costs was compiled. Results: Out of 188 patients approached, 102 (mean age 49 years, age range 17-82 years, 46 females, 56 males) participated in the study. Patients were taking an average of 3 medications (range 0-7). The DLQI scores showed a significantly better QoL for males compared to females (p<0.05). As expected both the DLQI and the PDI scores, showed a significantly better QoL for patients with mild symptoms compared to those with moderate symptoms followed by patients with moderate symptoms compared to those with severe symptoms of psoriasis. The average yearly cost per patient is 266 Euro for psoriasis specific medications and 958 Euro for the out-patient clinic costs. Forty-four patients are prepared to pay between 60 and 120 Euro a month for treating psoriasis, 13 patients are ready to pay up to 60 Euro a month while 45 patients are not prepared to pay. Conclusion: Cost of treatment does not correlate with the perception held by the patients on improvement of quality of life. |
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| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 15 Issue 1-2/suppl. 2003 |
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| Key words | pharmacy, quality of life, treatment costs, psoriasis |