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Introduction: Plaque psoriasis is a common, often debilitating, chronic autoimmune inflammatory skin disease. Moderate-to-severe forms of psoriasis can be treated with biologics such as anti-interleukin and anti-tumor necrosis factor antibodies. We aimed to investigate treatment discontinuation among patients with psoriasis who initiated biologic treatment. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, non-interventional cohort study based on anonymized claims data from the German statutory health insurance which covered the years from 2016 to 2021. We included adult patients with psoriasis who initiated biologic treatment in drug-specific cohorts. Over a 365-day follow-up period, we assessed the frequencies and the time until treatment discontinuation for different biologics. Differences in discontinuation rates were compared using a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model. Results: A total of 2565 patients with psoriasis who initiated treatment with secukinumab (n = 612), adalimumab (n = 454), guselkumab (n = 354), ixekizumab (n = 259), ustekinumab (n = 241), tildrakizumab (n = 205), brodalumab (n = 166), risankizumab (n = 145), etanercept (n = 91), certolizumab (n = 29), and infliximab (n = 9) were included. A total of 1290 patients (50.29%) discontinued treatment during the follow-up period, ranging from 30.34% (risankizumab) to 69.23% (etanercept). Median time until discontinuation of treatment ranged from 102 days (etanercept) to 208 days (risankizumab). Once the biologic treatment was discontinued, 45.05% of patients restarted the treatment with the same agent, 23.10% of patients switched to another biologic, and 31.86% received no further biologic agent. Compared to patients treated with risankizumab, the treatment discontinuation rate was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in patients treated with the other biologics except ustekinumab (p = 0.12). Conclusions: Further research should explore reasons leading to treatment discontinuation in order to support treatment choices for patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: For chronic diseases such as axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and plaque psoriasis (PsO), treatment goals include remission or at least low disease activity (LDA) by 12 weeks. Improvements in symptoms such as pain and fatigue should also be treatment goals. Methods: ADEQUATE was a German, prospective, non-interventional study to evaluate the proportion of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, PsA, axSpA, or PsO who, in routine clinical practice, benefit from the continuation of treatment with etanercept (ETN) beyond 12 weeks, even when their treatment goals have not yet been reached. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and changes in concomitant glucocorticoid use were also recorded. This article focuses on results for patients with axSpA and PsA; data for patients with PsO are described briefly. Results: In total, 305, 254, and 70 patients with axSpA, PsA, and PsO, respectively, were included. Rates of remission at week 12 and week 24, respectively, were 19% and 18% for axSpA, 38% and 51% for PsA, and 7% and 19% for PsO. Rates of LDA at week 12 and week 24, respectively, were 39% and 45% for axSpA, 50% and 60% for PsA, and 34% and 51% for PsO. Extending treatment up to 52 weeks was associated with stable rates of or further increases in remission and LDA rates. Improvements in pain, fatigue, and depression (axSpA, PsA, and PsO) and reductions in concomitant glucocorticoid use (axSpA and PsA) were observed. No new safety signals were detected. Conclusion: These findings confirm the effectiveness and safety of ETN in routine clinical practice for several indications and highlight potential benefits of continuing ETN treatment in patients who have not reached their treatment goals after 12 weeks. Additional benefits included improvements in PROs and reduction of concomitant glucocorticoids. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02486302. Plain Language Summary: Axial spondyloarthritis is a disorder that causes joint pain mainly in the spine and can cause deformation of the spine. Psoriatic arthritis and plaque psoriasis are disorders that cause dry, itchy, and raised skin patches. Psoriatic arthritis also causes swollen, stiff, and painful joints. Etanercept is a treatment used to reduce the symptoms of axial spondyloarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and plaque psoriasis. The aim of treatment is remission, or low disease activity after 12 weeks. In this study, people received etanercept for up to 52 weeks from their usual doctors in Germany. A total of 305 people with axial spondyloarthritis, 254 people with psoriatic arthritis, and 70 people with plaque psoriasis took part in the study. After 12 weeks of treatment, 19 in 100 people with axial spondyloarthritis were in remission and 39 in 100 people had low disease activity. In addition, 38 in 100 people with psoriatic arthritis were in remission and 50 in 100 people had low disease activity. Finally, 7 in 100 people with plaque psoriasis were in remission and 34 in 100 people had low disease activity. These numbers remained mostly stable until the end of the study. People also reported less pain, fatigue, and depression. Most people were able to use less glucocorticoids. The number and types of unwanted side effects were similar to those seen in other studies of etanercept in people with axial spondyloarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or plaque psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Limited information exists on the epidemiology, treatment, and burden of palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) and defining the optimal course of treatment remains challenging without approved targeted treatments in most countries. Here, we describe the clinical and demographic characteristics, treatments received, and negative health outcomes experienced among patients with PPP in the United States (US) and Germany. Methods: Retrospective cohort study between 2016 and 2021 using data from the US Merative™ MarketScan® Research Database and IQVIA™ German Disease Analyzer. Adult patients with PPP (ICD-10-CM L40.3) were followed from the date of their first qualifying PPP diagnosis and continued until the earlier of disenrollment or end date of database, during which treatment patterns and incidence rates of negative health outcomes were assessed. Treatment patterns included adherence, non-persistence, discontinuation, re-initiation, switching, and combination therapy. Results: The prevalence of PPP was 0.005% and 0.065% in the MarketScan database and German Disease Analyzer, respectively, with 1629 and 3866 patients meeting the inclusion criteria. Most patients were female (71.3%, 67.8%), with mean (SD) age of 54.1 (11.7) and 56.9 (14.3) years, respectively. One year post index, most patients received topical treatment (77.4%, 65.3%), but non-persistence and discontinuation were high. Oral and biologic treatments displayed higher levels of adherence, particularly apremilast and tofacitinib among oral treatments and TNF inhibitors and IL-23 inhibitors among biologics. Rates of negative health outcomes were higher among patients not receiving treatment post-index compared with those receiving treatment post-index across both databases, regardless of prior treatment history. Conclusions: Establishing treatment guidelines remains an unmet need for patients with PPP and could improve quality of life by reducing the occurrence of negative health outcomes. The findings from this study may provide insight into the effectiveness of current treatment options for patients with PPP and can be leveraged to support the development of treatment guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Real-world evidence (RWE) data is increasingly important to generate rapid insights to effectively manage patient populations. Disruptions like the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may negatively impact the choice of medications used for managing chronic diseases such as psoriasis (PSO). Here, we explored the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sales volumes of treatment guideline-based PSO medication in Germany. Methods: Patient-level pharmacy dispensing data from the Permea platform, covering approximately 44% of all community pharmacy dispensing in Germany, were analysed from 2019 through to 2021. Patient demographics and PSO indicated medication sales were assessed specifically before and during the pandemic in Germany. Results: We included 6,865,852 sold PSO related drugs from April 2019 to March 2021. Medication sales increased during the pandemic compared with before the pandemic for treatment classes of first-line biological and second-line drugs. The increase was observed across all age groups, but monthly variations could not be detected. Furthermore, we observed increased sales in first-line biological and second-line medications when comparing low to high COVID-19 incidence state. Conclusion: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic the PSO indicated medication sales increased for first-line biological and second-line treatment. This shows that despite the pandemic impact, there continues to be an increase in sales volume for biologics. Only German federal states with intermittently very high COVID-19 incidences show a stagnation in sales volume. The reasons for this need to be investigated in further studies to possibly gain a better understanding of the concerns and uncertainties of patients with PSO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory, immune-mediated disease. This study assessed the time at which patients switched from a conventional oral systemic treatment to a biologic therapy; patient clinical and quality of life (QoL) outcomes associated with oral systemic treatments; and the proportion of patients who persisted on oral therapy (nonswitchers), despite reported suboptimal clinical and QoL outcomes. Methods: This data analysis used the Adelphi Real World Psoriasis Disease Specific Programme, a non-interventional, retrospective, cross-sectional survey conducted in the USA, France, Germany, and United Kingdom (August 2018–April 2019). Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis assessed switching from oral to biologic therapy in patients treated ≥ 3 years at survey completion (n = 597). The severity of psoriasis was reported by physicians as the percentage of body surface area (BSA) affected by psoriasis. Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores were calculated for three groups: nonswitchers who met treatment failure criteria, nonswitchers who did not meet failure criteria, and switchers to a biologic therapy. Results: In KM analysis, approximately 50% of the patient population switched by 24 months. A substantial portion of nonswitchers continued to have moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Among nonswitchers, 57–77% had BSA ≥ 3% and 16–24% had BSA ≥ 10% at the time of the survey compared with 37% of switchers who had BSA of ≥ 3% and 9% who had BSA of ≥ 10%. QoL was poor among nonswitchers. The mean [standard deviation (SD)] DLQI scores for nonswitchers meeting treatment failure criteria, nonswitchers not meeting failure criteria, and switchers were 6.11 (4.55), 2.62 (3.29), and 2.25 (4.23), respectively. Conclusion: There is a clear unmet need for more effective oral therapies, and further research into the reasons for patients remaining undertreated, which may include patient preference for oral treatments (despite lack of response), contraindications, or insurance/formulary-related barriers to access, are needed. Plain Language Summary: Psoriasis is a common skin disease that causes itchy, painful, scaly sores. Patients may feel stigmatized, which can impact their quality of life and productivity. About 1 in 5 patients have severe psoriasis, which is harder to treat and may require pills or shots. Both shots and pills are effective at treating psoriasis; however, many patients choose to continue taking pills, even if their psoriasis worsens, for reasons including a desire to avoid needles. We described patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis who started on pills and either remained on pills or switched to shots by the time of the survey. We looked at the reasons they gave for switching, as well as at quality of life measures reported by the patients. To do this, we analyzed data from a survey called the Adelphi Real World Psoriasis Disease Specific Programme. This survey was conducted among doctors who treat skin diseases and their patients. Participating doctors and patients from the USA, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom were asked questions about the patients' health and how psoriasis affects their lives. Survey results showed that nearly half of patients switched to shots by 24 months, and most who switched cited treatment failure as the reason. Those who continued to take their pills despite having more severe psoriasis symptoms had more itching and pain and had lower quality of life than those who switched to shots. This suggests that there is a need for more effective oral treatments for patients with psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis has seen significant improvements in recent years with the advent of biologic drugs. The aim of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of anti-IL17 drugs and other biologic therapies used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in France and Germany over a one-year time horizon. We developed a cost per responder model for biologic drugs used in psoriasis treatment. The model included anti-IL17s (brodalumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab and bimekizumab), anti-TNFs (adalimumab, etanercept, certolizumab and infliximab), an anti-IL12/23 (ustekinumab), and anti-IL23s (risankizumab, guselkumab and tildrakizumab). Efficacy estimates were collected through a systematic literature review of network meta-analyses on long-term Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) measures. Dose recommendations and country-specific prices were used to calculate drug costs. Biosimilar drug prices were used when available as a substitute for the originator drugs. After one year, brodalumab had the lowest cost per PASI100-responder in both France (€20,220) and Germany (€26,807) across all available biologic treatments. Among the anti-IL17s, brodalumab had a 23% lower cost per PASI100-responder vs. the nearest comparator in France (bimekizumab, €26,369), and 30% lower vs. nearest comparator in Germany (ixekizumab, €38,027). Brodalumab also had the lowest cost per PASI75- and PASI90-responder among the anti-IL17s in both France and Germany after one year. Adalimumab had the lowest cost per PASI100-responder among the anti-TNFs in both France (€23,418) and Germany (€38,264). Among the anti-IL-23s, risankizumab had the lowest cost per PASI100-responder in both France (€20,969) and Germany (€26,994). Driven by its lower costs and high response rates, brodalumab was the most cost-effective treatment option for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis over a one-year time-horizon within the anti-IL17 class and when compared to all other biologics in France and Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin disease that is often associated with metabolic disorders. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a frequent comorbidity in HS. There is currently no established screening for DM in HS patients. The aim of our study was to identify high-risk groups of HS patients that develop DM and to assess the frequency of different types of DM present in HS patients. To do so, we conducted a monocentric study in 99 patients with HS. All patients underwent detailed clinical and laboratory assessments, including the determination of glycated hemoglobin. Among the 20.2% of patients that presented with DM, type 2 was by far the most prevalent (19 out of 20 patients). Moreover, male gender, age, BMI, Hurley stage, modified Hidradenitis Suppurativa Score (mHSS), DLQI and hypertension all correlated with the glycated hemoglobin levels in the HS patients. In the multivariable analysis, Hurley stage III, older age, and higher BMI were significantly associated with DM. Specifically, patients at Hurley stage III were at a 5.3-fold increased risk of having DM type II compared to patients at earlier Hurley stages. Since many of the HS patients had not been diagnosed, our study reveals shortcomings in the screening for DM and suggest that this should be routinely performed in HS patients at high risk to avoid secondary complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Vitamin D is an oil soluble vitamin responsible for various skeletal and non-skeletal functions, its deficiency is common in skin pathologies due to consequent abnormality in its synthesis and activation from skin cells. Objective The study targets to study the relationship between the degrees of vitamin D in psoriasis and acne patients, the research study compares the levels in patients suffering from the mentioned diseases. Methods The study employs a cross-sectional comparative method of analysis in Fauji Foundation Hospital Rawalpindi's Dermatology ward. 350 participants were selected by non-randomized convenient sampling, out of which 323 signed informed consent and qualified based on inclusion, and exclusion criteria were included. Out of these 323, 140 that were diagnosed with acne were included in group A based on inclusion criteria of age between 12 to 40. And, 183 participants diagnosed with psoriasis were included in group B based on inclusion criteria of age between 16 to 70. All these participants did not have a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or renal and hepatic diseases, and were screened for normal RFTs and LFTs by taking blood samples. Blood samples were collected by using the technique of immune-enzyme assessment ((25(OH)-Vitamin D) with the enabling function of ELISA kit Immundiagnostik AG, Germany) that assessed the level of Vitamin D serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH) D). The result was analyzed on SPSS 26. Results Values of one paired t-test depicts that there is a huge difference between the mean Vitamin D measure of acne (M=41.47, SD=19.6) and Vitamin D level of psoriasis (M=21.83, SD=8.5). Regarding the correlation between the level of serums in acne and psoriasis patients. It was assessed that there has been a direct and non-negligible negative association between the degrees of Vitamin D serum in psoriasis and acne patients (r=0.13, p=0.05). It was also instigated that there had not been vital correlation in Vitamin D serum levels in patients suffering from acne (r=1, p=0.05). Conclusion The research study developed that a direct and significant relationship between the level of Vitamin D serum and psoriasis whereas no vital correlations were found between levels of Vitamin D serum and acne. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis (PS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, and it increasingly appears also in the elderly population. There is a rising interest in drug therapy for PS, especially for people receiving care in nursing homes (NH). Which PS-related drugs are prescribed in the time before nursing home admission (NHA), and to what extent does the supply of drugs change after NHA? Which specialties prescribe PS-related drugs? Statutory health insurance data were examined for people with PS, aged ≥ 65 years, who were newly admitted to a NH in the period 2011–2014 and observed for one year before and after NHA. Changes in prescription prevalence (pre-post comparison) were examined for significant differences. Prescriptions of PS-relevant drugs were measured by defined daily dose and stratified according to the prescribing specialist group. The analysis included 718 insured persons with PS (76.2% female, mean age 83.3 years). Systemic therapeutics played a minor role (pre: 2.6% vs. post: 2.1%) in drug therapy. Topical steroids had a high share of about 40% in the pre–post comparison. Overall, the proportion of people with PS who received treatment remained at a comparable level before and after NHA. A structured assessment of the skin is crucial, specifically in people with cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Up to 30% of psoriasis (PsO) is clinically associated with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). A large proportion of new onset of PsA is diagnosed at a later stage, despite the necessity of early effective treatment to prevent structural damage. This study aimed to identify the routine screening practices used for PsA in patients with PsO., Patients and Methods: This non-interventional, prospective, epidemiological, cross-sectional study conducted in Germany focuses on screening activity and treatment selection of dermatological practices in suspected PsA. Descriptive statistics and patient characteristics were analyzed for different center types., Results: One hundred ninety-five patients from 34 office-based physicians, five non-university hospitals, and nine university hospitals were included. Questionnaires or imaging techniques were not routinely used (< 45%). Especially, ultrasounds (≤ 5%) and MRIs (< 6.3%) were rarely performed. Between 30% and 75% of suspected PsA could be confirmed. Referral to rheumatologists and/or appropriate therapy initiation were the most frequent consequences., Conclusions: Results of this study reflect the status of PsA screening activity by dermatologists. Imaging techniques, particularly ultrasound or MRIs to detect early forms of PsA, were inadequately used, which may have contributed to continued underdiagnoses. Collaboration between dermatologists and rheumatologists should be reviewed with a view to improving effective PsA screening., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH on behalf of Deutsche Dermatologische Gesellschaft.)

Background and Objectives: Flexible biologic therapy dosing regimens in psoriasis management are common, but data from routine care in Germany are scarce. This study evaluated treatment adjustments for biologic therapies commonly prescribed in Germany., Patients and Methods: Charts for up to 100 consecutive patients treated at 29 centers were reviewed. Data were extracted for adults (aged 18-65 years) with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis treated with adalimumab, guselkumab, ixekizumab, secukinumab, or ustekinumab for ≥ 36 weeks. The primary endpoint was time to first treatment adjustment. Secondary endpoints included frequency of and reasons for treatment adjustments. Time to treatment adjustment was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier methods., Results: Among 982 patients, 297 treatment adjustments in 240 (24.4%) patients were identified. The mean (median; interquartile range) time to first treatment adjustment (n = 223) was 8.4 (4.0; 2.0-12.0) months (secukinumab: 14.1 [10.0; 4.0-21.0], adalimumab: 11.0 [7.0; 3.0-14.5], ustekinumab: 11.0 [6.0; 2.0-16.0], ixekizumab: 5.8 [3.0; 2.0-8.5], guselkumab: 5.1 [3.0; 2.0-7.0]). The most frequent adjustment type was starting concomitant treatment(s) (10.4% of patients); insufficient skin effectiveness was the most frequent reason for adjustment., Conclusions: Biological treatment adjustments are frequent in moderate-to-severe psoriasis; flexible dosing regimens would support optimal management., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH on behalf of Deutsche Dermatologische Gesellschaft.)

While suboptimal pneumococcal vaccination rates have been reported in immunosuppressed patients with rheumatic diseases, data for patients with psoriasis (PsO) or atopic dermatitis (AD) are scarce. Pneumococcal vaccination in Germany is recommended in patients with certain comorbidities, immunosuppression, and/or aged 60 years or above. The aim of this multicenter cross-sectional study was to investigate the pneumococcal vaccination rate in patients with PsO compared to patients with AD and to evaluate patient perceptions. All patients completed a questionnaire on vaccination status and perceptions, patient and disease characteristics, as well as comorbidity. Medical records and vaccination certificates were reviewed. Over the whole cohort (n = 327 PsO (41.9% female), n = 98 AD (42.9% female)), 83.8% and 42.9% of PsO and AD patients, respectively, had an indication for pneumococcal vaccination due to immunosuppressive treatment. The pneumococcal vaccination rate was 14.4% and 10.2% in PsO and AD patients, respectively. The vaccination rate depended significantly on age, working status and presence of psoriatic arthritis. The most common reason for nonvaccination was lacking recommendation by physicians. Higher awareness, particularly for vaccination indication due to immunosuppression among dermatologists, general physicians, and patients, is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Data on uveitis in juvenile psoriatic arthritis (JPsA), a category of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), are scarce. We describe prevalence and risk factors for JPsA-associated uveitis (JPsA-U).Methods: Cross-sectional data from the German National Pediatric Rheumatological Database (2002-2014) were used to characterize JPsA-U and assess risk factors for the development of uveitis.Results: Uveitis developed in 6.6% of 1862 patients with JPsA. Patients with JPsA-U were more frequently female (73.0 vs 62.9%, P = 0.03), antinuclear antibody (ANA) positive (60.3 vs 37.0%, P < 0.001), younger at JPsA onset (5.3 ± 4.1 vs 9.3 ± 4.4 yrs, P < 0.001), and treated with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) significantly more frequently compared with JPsA patients without uveitis. On a multivariable analysis of a subgroup of 655 patients enrolled in the study ≤ 1 year after arthritis onset, mean clinical Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score for 10 joints during study documentation was significantly associated with uveitis development. Children with early onset of JPsA (aged < 5 yrs vs ≥ 5 yrs) were significantly more frequently ANA positive (48.4% vs 35.7%, P < 0.001), affected by uveitis (17.3% vs 3.8%, P < 0.001), and treated with DMARDs (52.9% vs 43.8%, P < 0.001), but less often affected by skin disease (55.3% vs 61.0%, P = 0.03).Conclusion: The characteristics of patients with JPsA developing uveitis are similar to those of patients with uveitis in other JIA categories, such as oligoarticular JIA. Children with early-onset JPsA are at a higher risk for ocular involvement. Our data support the notion of a major clinical difference between those patients with early vs late onset of JPsA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biologic psoriasis treatments are differentiated by efficacy, side effects, and other attributes. Determine attributes of biologic psoriasis treatments that drive patients' treatment choices. Respondents (USA: n = 300; Germany: n = 300) with moderate-to-severe psoriasis completed a discrete-choice–experiment survey, choosing between hypothetical treatments characterized by attributes with varying levels: chance of clear skin after 1 year, number of first-year treatments, first-year risks of mild-to-moderate injection site reaction (ISR) and serious infection, and years of proven efficacy/safety. U.S. respondents most valued clear skin (conditional relative importance, 1.88; p <.05). While other attributes were of generally equivalent importance, ISR risk outweighed serious-infection risk (1.06 vs. 0.70; p <.05). German respondents placed greatest importance on ISR risk (1.61; p <.05) and clear skin (1.49; p <.05). Respondents evaluated hypothetical treatments and were recruited from web panels. Clear skin and ISR risk are stronger drivers of treatment choice than injection frequency and infection risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis is a chronic disease with high impact on patients' health and their quality of life. Psoriasis often occurs along with other comorbidities, but it is not yet clear what role the comorbidities play in regional psoriasis prevalence. This study investigates the temporal and regional variation of the psoriasis comorbidities diabetes mellitus type II, obesity, hypertension, affective disorders in Germany and their association with psoriasis prevalence. This analysis based on the population set of ambulatory claims data (2010–2017) of the statutory health insurance (SHI) in Germany (approx. 70.3 million people in 2017). Psoriasis comorbidities rates were determined on county level. We performed descriptive spatiotemporal analyses of psoriasis comorbidity prevalence rates. In addition, we identified and compared spatial clusters and examined regional variations using spatial statistical methods. The results show strong regional variations (northeast to south gradient) and an increasing psoriasis prevalence (max. 28.8%) within the observation period. Considering the comorbidities, results indicate comparable spatial prevalence patterns for diabetes mellitus type II, obesity and hypertension. This means that the highest prevalence of comorbidities tends to be found where the psoriasis prevalence is highest. The spatiotemporal cluster analyses could once again confirm the results. An exception to this is to be found in the case of affective disorders with different spatial patterns. The results of the studies show the first spatiotemporal association between psoriasis prevalence and comorbidities in Germany. The causalities must be investigated in more detail in order to be able to derive measures for improved care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fully human monoclonal antibody guselkumab is an effective treatment option for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. The objective of this study was to examine the cost per responder of guselkumab compared with other targeted therapies for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in Germany. A one-year cost per responder model was developed based on efficacy and safety data from a published network meta-analysis. Drug, treatment administration, resource use, and adverse event costs were included in the analysis. The primary analysis assessed the cost per Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 90 responder at week 16. Additional analyses were conducted at year 1. In the year 1 analyses, treatment response was assessed at the end of the induction period (week 16) to determine which patients continued onto maintenance therapy (responders) and which patients moved onto a subsequent adalimumab or secukinumab therapy (non-responders). At week 16, the cost per PASI 90 responder was lower for guselkumab than all comparators except adalimumab and brodalumab. Similarly, in the year 1 analyses, guselkumab had a lower cost per PASI 90 responder than all comparators except brodalumab. Guselkumab is a cost-effective therapy option in Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Psoriasis significantly impacts patients' quality of life (QoL). Dissatisfaction and non-adherence are major barriers associated with topical treatments. A cream based on the polyaphron dispersion (PAD) Technology containing a fixed-dose of calcipotriol (CAL) and betamethasone dipropionate (BDP) was designed for a patient-friendly psoriasis management. The CAL/BDP PAD-cream demonstrated efficacy, convenience, and safety/tolerability in clinical trials., Objectives: This research assesses the real-world use, perception, satisfaction, and adherence of CAL/BDP PAD-cream among plaque psoriasis patients., Methods: Between September-November 2023, psoriasis patients from Spain and Germany using or having used CAL/BDP PAD-cream for >2 weeks were recruited via Wefight network to complete a 30-questions online survey. Anonymized results were pooled for descriptive statistical analysis., Results: The survey was completed by 129 patients (mean age: 43 years; 66% females; mean psoriasis duration: 12 years). Most patients (93%) were satisfied with CAL/BDP PAD-cream. The 66% reported high adherence (visual analogue scale 80-100) and 91% preferred CAL/BDP PAD-cream to their previous topical(s). Patients highlighted its ease/convenience of application, tolerability, and lack of itching/burning., Conclusions: Psoriasis patients treated with CAL/BDP PAD-cream in a real-world setting show high satisfaction, good adherence, and a positive perception of the product, suggesting that favorable outcomes observed in clinical trials translate to real clinical practice.

Summary: Background: Fumaric acid esters (FAEs; Fumaderm®) are the most frequently prescribed first‐line systemic treatment for moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis in Germany. Risankizumab (Skyrizi®) is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to the p19 subunit of interleukin 23. Objectives: To compare risankizumab treatment to FAEs in patients with psoriasis. Methods: This phase III randomized, active‐controlled, open‐label study with blinded assessment of efficacy was conducted in Germany. Patients were randomized (1 : 1) to subcutaneous risankizumab 150 mg (weeks 0, 4 and 16) or oral FAEs at increasing doses from 30 mg daily (week 0) up to 720 mg daily (weeks 8–24). Enrolled patients were adults naïve to and candidates for systemic therapy, with chronic moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis. Phototherapy was not allowed within 14 days before or during the study. Results: Key efficacy endpoints were met at week 24 for risankizumab (n = 60) vs. FAEs (n = 60) (P < 0·001): achievement of a ≥ 90% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI; primary endpoint 83·3% vs. 10·0%), ≥ 100% improvement in PASI (50·0% vs. 5·0%), ≥ 75% improvement in PASI (98·3% vs. 33·3%), ≥ 50% improvement in PASI (100% vs. 53·3%) and a Static Physician's Global Assessment of clear/almost clear (93·3% vs. 38·3%). The rates of gastrointestinal disorders, flushing, lymphopenia and headache were higher in the FAE group. One patient receiving risankizumab reported a serious infection (influenza, which required hospitalization). There were no malignancies, tuberculosis or opportunistic infections in either treatment arm. Conclusions: Risankizumab was found to be superior to FAEs, providing earlier and greater improvement in psoriasis outcomes that persisted with continued treatment, and more favourable safety results, which is consistent with the known safety profile. No new safety signals for risankizumab or FAEs were observed. What is already known about this topic? Risankizumab (Skyrizi®) is approved as treatment for patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy.Risankizumab is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to the p19 subunit of interleukin 23.Fumaric acid esters (FAEs) are the most frequently prescribed first‐line systemic treatment for moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis in Germany. What does this study add? In patients with psoriasis who were naïve to systemic treatment, risankizumab treatment was superior to FAEs, providing earlier and greater improvement in psoriasis outcomes that persisted to week 24.Risankizumab showed more favourable safety results than FAEs and no new safety signals.The results support risankizumab treatment for patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis who are naïve to systemic treatment. Linked Comment: P. Fleming. Br J Dermatol 2022; 186:4–5. Plain language summary available online [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterised by pruritic skin lesions that impair quality of life (QOL). Long-Term Documentation of the Utilization of Apremilast in Patients with Plaque Psoriasis under Routine Conditions (LAPIS-PSO; ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02626793) was a 52-week, prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study conducted in real-world dermatology clinical settings in Germany. We evaluated physician- and patient-reported outcomes for QOL, effectiveness and tolerability in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis vulgaris in LAPIS-PSO. Methods: The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients achieving Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) score ≤ 5 or ≥ 5-point improvement from baseline in DLQI score at visit 2 (~ 4 months after baseline). Secondary endpoints included assessments of symptoms and disease severity. Tolerability was evaluated based on adverse events (AEs). A pre-defined subgroup analysis based on baseline Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) score (2 or 3 versus 4) was performed. Data were examined descriptively through visit 5 (~ 13 months) using the last-observation-carried-forward (LOCF) approach and data as observed. Results: In total, 257 patients were included for efficacy assessment. On LOCF analysis, most patients achieved the primary endpoint at visit 2 (66.5%); DLQI response was maintained at visit 5 (72.4%). Earlier treatment response was observed in patients with a PGA score of 2 or 3 versus 4 (visit 1 PASI ≤ 3: 20.5% versus 10.8%). Adverse events were consistent with the known safety profile of apremilast. Conclusions: In routine clinical care in Germany, patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis benefited from apremilast treatment up to ~ 13 months, consistent with findings from clinical trials, with a good safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Uncontrolled inflammatory disease activity can impact pregnancy outcomes and the health of the mother and child. This retrospective claims database analysis assessed treatment patterns before, during, and after pregnancy among women with inflammatory rheumatic disease (IRD; axial spondyloarthritis [axSpA], psoriatic arthritis [PsA], and rheumatoid arthritis [RA]) or psoriasis (PSO) in Germany. Methods: Data were extracted from the BARMER sickness fund (2013–2017). Pregnant women (18–45 years) with documented IRD or PSO diagnoses were compared with age-matched controls from the same database for the analysis of patient characteristics, healthcare resource utilization, and pharmacological treatment during pregnancy. Reported measures included the proportion of women with pharmacological prescriptions or hospitalization/new prescription of corticosteroids or biologics in the 180 days before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and 180 days after delivery. Pre-specified prescription categories (such as disease-specific drugs [not including biologics]) were identified by anatomical therapeutic chemical classification codes. Extrapolated values to the German statutory health insurance population are reported. Results: Overall, 2702 pregnant women with IRD (axSpA: 1063; PsA: 660; RA: 979) and 6527 with PSO were identified. The proportion of women with IRD receiving prescriptions for disease-specific drugs reduced during pregnancy and remained stable after delivery (before: 15.0%; during: 9.0%; after: 9.7%). The proportion of women with PSO receiving prescriptions for disease-specific drugs was low (before: 0.6%; during: 0.3%; after: 0.1%). The proportion of women with hospitalization/new prescription of corticosteroids or biologics decreased during pregnancy, compared with pre-pregnancy, and increased after delivery in women with IRD (before: 9.0%; during: 5.1%; after: 11.1%) and PSO (before: 3.5%; during: 1.9%; after: 2.7%). Conclusions: A reduction in pharmacological treatment during pregnancy was observed for women with IRD in Germany. Many women with IRD did not return to pre-pregnancy treatments after delivery, despite signs of disease exacerbation, such as hospitalization and initiation of treatment with corticosteroids/biologics, in this period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patient-reported outcomes are relevant in clinical practice showing patient benefits, supporting clinicians' decision-making, and contributing to the delivery of high standards of care. Digital monitoring of patient-reported outcomes is still rare. The Patient Benefit Index (PBI) measures benefits and goals from patients' views and may be relevant for regular documentation and shared decision-making., Objective: This study aimed to develop electronic versions of the PBI to examine their feasibility and acceptability in clinical practice for patients with psoriasis., Methods: We developed an app and a web version of the existing, valid PBI using focus groups and cognitive debriefings with patients before conducting a quantitative survey on its feasibility and acceptability. Conduction took part in an outpatient dermatology care unit in Germany. Descriptive and subgroup analyses were conducted., Results: A total of 139 patients completed the electronic PBIs (ePBIs) and took part in the survey. The ePBI was understandable (n=129-137, 92.8%-98.6%) and feasible, for example, easy to read (n=135, 97.1%) and simple to handle (n=137, 98.5%). Acceptability was also high, for example, patients can imagine using and discussing the ePBI data in practice (n=91, 65.5%) and documenting it regularly (n=88, 63.3%). They believe it could support treatment decisions (n=118, 84.9%) and improve communication with their physician (n=112, 81.3%). They can imagine filling in electronic questionnaires regularly (n=118, 84.9%), even preferring electronic over paper versions (n=113, 81.2%). Older and less educated people show less feasibility, but the latter expected the relationship with their physician to improve and would be more willing to invest time or effort., Conclusions: The app and web version of the PBI are usable and acceptable for patients offering comprehensive documentation and patient participation in practice. An implementation strategy should consider patients' needs, barriers, and facilitators but also physicians' attitudes and requirements from the health care system., (©Marina Otten, Vahid Djamei, Matthias Augustin. Originally published in JMIR Dermatology (http://derma.jmir.org), 09.08.2024.)

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder with a high burden of disease. People affected with psoriasis increasingly use the internet for health-related reasons, especially those with younger age, higher education, and higher disease severity. Despite advantages such as enhancing the individuals' knowledge with the use of digital media for health-related issues, disadvantages were also present such as quality control, and variability in the individuals' health information literacy. While patients with psoriasis within medical settings generally trust physicians over digital media, they commonly withhold their web-based research findings from health care providers., Objective: The study aims to (1) identify further factors associated with regular psoriasis-related internet use, (2) rank specific digital media platforms used, and (3) examine digital media within the physician-patient relationship among individuals with and without dermatological treatment., Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among individuals with self-reported psoriasis in Germany between September 2021 and February 2022. Participants were recruited via digital media platforms and in person at a University Hospital Department of Dermatology in southern Germany. The questionnaire asked about demographic and medical information, individual psoriasis-related digital media use, and the impact of digital media on the physician-patient relationship. Data were analyzed descriptively, and logistic regression models were performed to assess the factors associated with regular psoriasis-related internet use., Results: Among 321 individuals with a median age of 53 (IQR 41-61) years (nonnormally distributed; females: 195/321), female sex, shorter disease duration, moderate mental burden of disease, and good self-assessed psoriasis-related knowledge were associated with regular psoriasis-related internet use. Of the 188 participants with a mean age of 51.2 (SD 13.9) years (normally distributed) who used digital media 106 (56.4%) usually searched for information on psoriasis-based websites and 98 (52.1%) on search engines, primarily for obtaining information about the disease and therapy options, while social media were less frequently used (49/188, 26.1%). Nearly two-thirds of internet users (125/188) claimed that their physicians did not recommend digital media platforms. About 44% (82/188) of the individuals reported to seek for additional information due to the insufficient information provided by their physician., Conclusions: This study revealed the importance of digital media in the context of psoriasis, especially among women, individuals with shorter disease duration, and moderate mental disease severity. The lack of physicians' digital media recommendations despite their patients' desire to receive such and being more involved in health-related decisions seems to be a shortcoming within the physician-patient relationships. Physicians should guide their patients on digital media by recommending platforms with evidence-based information, thereby potentially creating an adequate framework for shared decision-making. Future research should focus on strategies to prevent the spread of false information on digital media and address the needs of patients and physicians to enhance health-related digital media offerings., (©Mert Ege Erbas, Stefanie Ziehfreund, Hannah Wecker, Tilo Biedermann, Alexander Zink. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org), 07.08.2024.)

Approximately 2% of the German population suffer from psoriasis. HybridVITA has developed a mobile application (app) that enables psoriasis patients to independently document the progression of the disease and the current psychological stress at home. The HybridVITA app was created in close collaboration with user groups to ensure optimal adaptation to their needs. Two interactive workshops were held with the user groups and the technical developers of the app as a core element of the developmental process. The workshops identified the needs and suggestions for improvement of the various user groups and formulated user stories for the further development of the app using the Scrum method. The participatory approach of the workshop enabled the project team to gather valuable practical knowledge at an early stage of development. The team's awareness of potential obstacles during the early stages of the project enabled them to proactively identify and address these issues prior to implementing the app in dermatological care. We are confident that a patient-centered and participatory approach to health app development can provide valuable insights for developers., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Limited data exist on the characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 infections in German patients with psoriasis or psoriasis arthritis (PsA). This study analyses COVID-19 prevalence and severity of symptoms in these patients., Patients and Methods: Participants of the German registries PsoBest and CoronaBest were surveyed in February 2022. Descriptive analyses were conducted., Results: 4,818 patients were included in the analysis, mean age of 56.4 years. Positive SARS-CoV-2 tests were reported by 737 (15.3%) patients. The most frequently reported acute symptoms were fatigue (67.3%), cough (58.8%), and headache (58.3%). Longer-lasting symptoms after COVID-19 were reported by 231 of 737 patients after the acute phase. For most patients (92.9%), systemic treatment for their psoriasis or PsA was not modified during the pandemic. Patients positively tested for SARS-CoV-2 were younger on average and had more often changes in the therapy of psoriasis than negatively tested patients (8.5% vs. 5.4%)., Conclusions: In this cohort of patients with psoriasis or PsA undergoing systemic treatment, SARS-CoV-2 infections were common but less frequent than in the general German population. No risk signals for more severe COVID-19 or increased infection rates were observed in the patients. In addition, systemic treatments remained largely unchanged, so that no risks can be attributed to these therapies., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH on behalf of Deutsche Dermatologische Gesellschaft.)

An increased risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE), comprising pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep venous thrombosis, has been reported in psoriasis patients. The impact of psoriasis on prognosis of VTE patients is widely unknown. Hospitalized PE patients were stratified for psoriasis and the impact of psoriasis on outcome was investigated in the German nationwide inpatient sample of the years 2005–2017. Overall, 1,076,384 hospitalizations of PE patients (53.7% females, median age 72.0 [60.0–80.0] years) were recorded in Germany 2005–2017. Among these, 3145 patients had psoriasis (0.3%). Psoriatic PE patients were younger (68.0 [57.0–76.0] vs. 72.0 [60.0–80.0] years, P < 0.001) and more often male (64.1% vs. 46.3%,P < 0.001). The prevalence of VTE risk factors, traditional cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular comorbidities was higher in psoriatic than in non-psoriatic individuals. Psoriatic PE patients showed a lower in-hospital case-fatality rate (11.1% vs. 16.0%, P < 0.001), confirmed by logistic regressions showing an independent association of psoriasis with reduced case-fatality rate (OR 0.73 [95%CI 0.65–0.82],P < 0.001), despite higher prevalence of pneumonia (24.8% vs. 23.2%, P = 0.029). Psoriasis was an independent predictor for gastro-intestinal bleeding (OR 1.35 [95%CI 1.04–1.75], P = 0.023) and transfusion of blood constituents (OR 1.23 [95%CI 1.11–1.36], P < 0.001). PE patients with psoriasis were hospitalized in median four years earlier than those without. Although psoriasis was associated with an unfavorable cardiovascular-risk and VTE-risk profile in PE patients, our data demonstrate a lower in-hospital mortality in psoriatic PE, which might be mainly driven by younger age. Our findings may improve the clinical management of these patients and contribute evidence for relevant systemic manifestation of psoriasis. An increased risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE), comprising pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep venous thrombosis, has been reported in psoriasis patients, but the impact of psoriasis on prognosis of VTE patients is widely unknown. PE patients with psoriasis were younger and psoriasis was associated with an unfavorable cardiovascular-risk and VTE-risk profile. In-hospital mortality was lower in psoriatic PE patients, which might be mainly driven by younger age. Our findings improve the clinical management of PE patients and contribute evidence for relevant systemic manifestation of psoriasis. Psoriasis with chronic inflammation promotes PE development, is associated with an unfavorable cardiovascular and VTE-risk profile, but lower in-hospital mortality. • Psoriasis is accompanied by an increased risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). • Psoriasis was associated with unfavorable cardiovascular-risk and VTE-risk profile in PE patients. • PE patients with psoriasis were younger than those PE patients without psoriasis. • In-hospital mortality was lower in psoriatic PE patients mainly driven by younger age. • Our findings contribute evidence for relevant systemic manifestation of psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic visible skin diseases are highly prevalent, and patients affected frequently report feeling stigmatised. Interventions to reduce stigmatisation are rare. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured short intervention in reducing stigmatising attitudes towards psoriasis in future educators. Methods: The intervention consisted of four components: (1) self‐reflection, (2) education on skin diseases, (3) contact between participants and a person with psoriasis and (4) practising of knowledge via case studies. A quasi‐experimental, pre–post study design was chosen with a nonrandomized contemporaneous control group that attended regular lessons. The main outcomes were participants' desire for social distance, stereotype endorsement, illness‐related misconceptions and intended behaviour. Intervention effects were analysed using mixed repeated‐measures analysis of variance, with Bonferroni post‐hoc tests for pairwise comparisons. Results: The sample consisted of 221 students attending vocational training as educators (n = 118 intervention group, n = 103 control group). While no effect of the intervention was found in social distance, small to large effect sizes were observed for intended behaviour (r =.14), illness‐related misconceptions (r =.28) and stereotype endorsement (r =.42). The intervention group reported significantly higher satisfaction with the seminar compared to the control group. Conclusions: Overall, the short intervention was effective at reducing stigmatising attitudes in future educators. In perspective, revised versions could help in reducing stigmatisation in various demographics and promote patient empowerment by acknowledging and including them as experts on their own behalf. Patient or Public Contribution: Patient advocate groups were consulted and involved in the superordinate destigmatization research programme and intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fumaric acid ester (FAE) is the most commonly prescribed first-line systemic therapy for the treatment of psoriasis in Germany. Although developed in the 1990s, only limited long-term data are available. Data of 200 adult psoriatic patients from 10 study centers were collected in a noninterventional, multicenter, retrospective analysis. The inclusion criteria was treatment with FAE in 2015. Eighty-two percent of the patients were naive to systemic treatment. Ten percent of all patients had FAE-treatment for 10 years or longer with an average drug survival of 4.32 years. The maintenance dose was ranging from 1–4 120 mg tablets for 87.5% of the patients. In our population, 14% of the patients stopped therapy during the first six month mainly due to gastro-intestinal side effects. No serious side effects were reported. Seventy-eight percent of the patients responded to FAE therapy with improvement of their psoriasis to mild (61%) or clear (17%). The PASI 75 response was achieved in 44% of the patient during long-term treatment without remarkable differences between moderate or severe plaque psoriasis. Our study confirms FAE therapy as a long-term, first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In a phase 3 clinical study, patients from Germany with moderate to severe psoriasis who were naïve to systemic treatment and received risankizumab had greater and more rapid disease improvements compared with those who received fumaric acid esters (FAEs). Objective: To evaluate patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in patients treated with risankizumab compared with FAEs. Methods: Adult patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either risankizumab 150 mg subcutaneous injections at weeks 0, 4 and 16 or FAEs (Fumaderm®) provided according to the prescribing label. PRO secondary endpoints assessed were Psoriasis Symptom Scale (PSS), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), 36‐Item Short Form Health Survey, version 2 (SF‐36v2), Patient Benefit Index (PBI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Patient Global Assessment (PtGA) and European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 5 Level (EQ‐5D‐5L). PROs were assessed at weeks 0, 16 and 24. Results: Sixty patients each were randomized to receive risankizumab or FAEs. A significant PSS improvement was observed with risankizumab vs. FAEs at weeks 16 and 24 for total and psoriasis‐associated redness, itching and burning scores (P < 0.001). DLQI scores were significantly lower (reflecting better health‐related quality of life) with risankizumab vs. FAEs, with least squares (LS) mean differences of −7.4 and −7.6 at weeks 16 and 24, respectively (both P < 0.001). Patients randomized to risankizumab also had larger improvements in SF‐36 Physical and Mental Component Summary scores, HADS anxiety and depression scores, PtGA, and EQ‐5D‐5L index and visual analogue scale scores (all P ≤ 0.002) at weeks 16 and 24 compared with FAEs. PBI was significantly higher, indicating greater benefit, with risankizumab vs. FAEs, with an LS mean difference of 1.1 and 1.3 at weeks 16 and 24, respectively (both P < 0.001). Conclusions: Risankizumab provides significant benefits over FAEs in improving PROs across several dimensions in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the study series PsoHealth first data from 2004/05 showed a poor quality of health care for psoriasis in Germany. Most patients lacked sufficient care and only a minor proportion received systemic drugs. Since 2007, a national psoriasis programme has been conducted. Objectives: (1) To analyse the quality of health care for psoriasis in the most recent PsoHealth4 survey 2016/17, (2) to compare health care quality indicators with prior assessments since 2004/05. Materials and methods: The recent cross‐sectional PsoHealth4 survey was conducted 2016/17, and three preceding studies were performed in 2004/05, 2007 and 2013/14, each including at least 1500 patients. The common set of quality indicators included disease severity (PASI and proportion of patients with PASI > 20, indicating high severity), quality of life (DLQI and proportion of patients with DLQI > 10, indicating strong impairments in quality of life), systemic therapy and inpatient treatment of the last five years. Results: Between December 2015 and December 2017, n = 1827 patients from 93 dermatological centres were included in the most recent survey (mean age: 50.8 ± 14.6 years, 45.2% female). 7.3% showed a PASI > 20, compared to 17.8% in 2004/05. 21.4% reported a DLQI > 10, compared to 34.0% in 2004/05. 57.6% of all participants stated to have received a systemic therapy at least once within the last five years, compared to 32.9% in 2004/05. 18.0% received inpatient hospital treatment at least once within the last five years, compared to 26.9% in 2004/05. Conclusion: A remarkable improvement in the health care quality for psoriasis patients in Germany within the past 12 years can be assumed. Major determinants could be the innovation shift which included programmes such as the S3 guideline, a consensus on treatment goals, national health care goals for psoriasis and higher utilisation of innovative drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association of hidradenitis suppurativa with other skin diseases has not yet been investigated in larger studies based on dermatological exams. The objectives of this study are to determine the prevalence and cutaneous comorbidities of hidradenitis suppurativa in the German working population. Between 2014 and 2017, 20,112 people in 343 German companies were examined for the presence of clinical features of hidradenitis suppurativa within the framework of a cross-sectional epidemiological study based on whole-body examinations. In addition, all cutaneous comorbidities were recorded. Point prevalence was calculated and the differences between individuals with and without hidradenitis suppurativa were determined by bivariate analysis. All statistical procedures were performed using SPSS 23.0 for Windows. Of 20,112 people examined, mean age was 43.6 ± 10.5 years; 52.3% were male. In total, n = 57 people (0.3%) with hidradenitis suppurativa were identified; 61.4% (n = 35) being male. In addition, non-inflammatory hidradenitis suppurativa-related lesions were found in 674 other individuals. In a bivariate comparison, patients with hidradenitis suppurativa showed significantly more frequently the following cutaneous comorbidities: acne vulgaris, psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, excoriations, and folliculitis. We determined a point prevalence of hidradenitis suppurativa of 0.3%. Since we have examined the working population, the healthy worker effect, which could have led to underestimation of prevalence, cannot be ruled out. The point prevalence of 0.3% for employed people in Germany and a prevalence of 3.0% for inflammatory and non-inflammatory hidradenitis suppurativa-related lesions show that hidradenitis suppurativa is an important disease for the whole health system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medical rehabilitation plays an important role in the management of patients with chronic dermatoses and dermato-oncological diseases., Objectives: Which dermatological indications qualify for a medical rehabilitation? What forms need to be completed for a successful application? Which treatments are provided and what are goals to be accomplished during dermatological rehabilitation?, Materials and Methods: Evaluation of current guidelines, directives, and recommendations as well as exemplary reviews., Results: Dermato-oncological diseases and every chronic dermatological disease that is associated with a limitation of body functions and structures, activity and participation is eligible for medical rehabilitation. They include need, ability to absolve a rehabilitation, and a favorable prognosis. Treatments range from therapy of the underlying dermatological condition to interdisciplinary treatment of comorbidities with the aim of restoring functional health., Conclusions: Medical rehabilitation follows a holistic approach and represents a significant addition to outpatient and acute inpatient care, often leading to a long-term improvement in clinical outcome, participation, and activity., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

Prurigo nodularis is an itchy skin disease with unknown epidemiology. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology of prurigo nodularis compared with that of psoriasis. The German sickness fund claims database, with 2,783,175 continuously insured patients, included 1,720 patients diagnosed with prurigo nodularis and 51,390 with psoriasis. Patients with prurigo nodularis were averagely 8 years older than psoriasis patients and more often were women (p < 0.001). Annual incidence was a constant 0.02% in prurigo nodularis, and decreased steadily from 0.53 to 0.42% in psoriasis; cumulative incidence was 0.1% for prurigo nodularis and 1.9% for psoriasis. Prevalence was 0.1% for prurigo nodularis and 4.7% for psoriasis, with a one-year mortality of 5.4% for prurigo nodularis and 1.2% for psoriasis (p < 0.001). The most frequent preexisting comorbidities in patients with prurigo nodularis were inflammatory dermatoses and depression. This epidemiological study found a low prevalence of prurigo nodularis, manifesting different demographics and comorbidities compared with psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Guselkumab, a fully human interleukin‐23 antibody, is approved for systemic treatment of patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis. Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of guselkumab with those of fumaric acid esters (FAE) in patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis who are naive to systemic treatment. Methods: Eligible patients were randomized to this multicentre, randomized, open‐label, assessor‐blinded, active‐comparator‐controlled phase IIIb study to receive guselkumab 100 mg by subcutaneous injection or oral FAE according to local label guidelines. Results: Through week 24, 56 of 60 patients completed guselkumab treatment and 36 of 59 completed FAE treatment. The primary endpoint (proportion of patients with ≥ 90% improvement from their baseline Psoriasis Area and Severity Index; PASI 90 response) was achieved by significantly more patients receiving guselkumab than FAE at week 24 (82% vs. 14%, P < 0·001). Analysis of the major secondary endpoints confirmed a statistically significant difference between the treatments with regards to PASI 75 response (90% vs. 27%, P < 0·001) and Dermatology Life Quality Index score of 0 or 1 (no effect at all on the patient's quality of life; 62% vs. 17%, P < 0·001). More patients in the guselkumab group achieved completely clear skin (PASI 100 response) than in the FAE group (32% vs. 3%, P < 0·001). The incidence of adverse events was lower with guselkumab than with FAE (73% vs. 98%). Overall, 28% of patients on FAE discontinued due to an adverse event, compared with none receiving guselkumab. No new safety findings were observed for guselkumab. Conclusions: Guselkumab demonstrated superiority over FAE in systemic‐treatment‐naive patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis through 24 weeks. What's already known about this topic? Guselkumab is approved as treatment for patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy.Guselkumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the p19 subunit of the immune‐regulatory cytokine interleukin‐23, a key driver of immune response in psoriasis.Fumaric acid esters (FAE) are among the most commonly prescribed first‐line systemic therapies for plaque psoriasis in Germany and they are increasingly being used in other countries. What does this study add? In patients with psoriasis who are naive to systemic treatment, guselkumab was superior to FAE in achieving ≥ 75%, ≥ 90% and 100% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, and Dermatology Life Quality Index scores of 0 or 1 at week 24.Guselkumab showed a favourable safety profile, and fewer patients discontinued treatment due to adverse events compared with FAE‐treated patients.The results support the use of guselkumab in systemic‐treatment‐naive patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis. Linked Comment: Meier and Ghoreschi. Br J Dermatol 2020; 183:201–202. Plain language summary available online [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with genital psoriasis show poorer outcomes regarding quality of life and sexual distress than those without. This study aimed to assess the occurrence of genital psoriasis and to determine factors associated with the avoidance of sexual activities due to psoriasis in a non-clinical setting. A cross-sectional, person-centered, and online-based nationwide survey was conducted in Germany between March and June 2019. A multiple logistic regression model was used to analyze the data. Furthermore, free-text answers were provided. Overall, 344 individuals with psoriasis participated. Of these, 198 (57.6%) reported having genital psoriasis and 261 (75.9%) currently received medical care. Duration of psoriasis, subjective overall severity, and pain during sex were associated with the avoidance of sexual activities. Most prevalent reasons to avoid sexual activities were 'shame,' 'pain,' and 'fear of rejection.' Sexual distress was high in this sample and a person-centered care approach needs to be further promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Establishing romantic relationships involving cohabitation and/or sexual intercourse is an overriding task for many people during emerging adulthood, i.e. from their late teens through the twenties. The diagnosis of anogenital psoriasis may hinder social/intimate relationships, resulting in higher disease burden in this age group. Objectives: To compare the disease burden and patient needs/benefits between emerging adults (18–30 years) and adults (>30 years) with psoriasis, with and without anogenital involvement; and to identify sociodemographic/clinical variables accounting for better patient‐reported outcomes. Methods: Patients aged ≥18 years with psoriasis vulgaris were recruited within a cross‐sectional nationwide survey randomly assigning 157 dermatology practices/clinics in Germany. Anogenital involvement was established based on a high‐resolution grid on the topology of psoriasis. The main outcome measures were the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), the EuroQoL visual analogue scale (EQ‐VAS), the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the Patient Benefit Index (PBI). Results: Participants were 1921 patients: 173 emerging adults and 1749 adults >30 years. Anogenital involvement was observed in 621 patients (32.3%). Patient with anogenital psoriasis reported decreased health and more QoL impairments compared with those without anogenital lesions. Emerging adults presented more QoL impairments and less treatment benefits than older patients, and they were more prone to underrate a wide range of needs, except when the anogenital area was affected. Beyond anogenital involvement and higher disease severity, less treatment benefits were associated with more QoL impairments, particularly for emerging adults. Conclusions: The developmental instability of many emerging adults may result in difficulties to establish/adhere to treatment goals and thus in decreased perception of treatment benefit and more QoL impairments. Anogenital involvement is a risk factor for increased disease burden regardless of age. Assessing anogenital involvement in all patients and helping younger patients to define/adhere to treatment goals should be prioritized in patient‐centred healthcare for psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Interleukin‐17 antagonists have received a first‐line label for moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis. Objectives: We conducted the first head‐to‐head trial between the two most commonly used first‐line therapies in Germany, fumaric acid esters (FAEs) and methotrexate, and the interleukin‐17A antagonist, ixekizumab. Methods: Systemic‐naive patients were randomized in this parallel‐group, active‐comparator, open‐label, rater‐blinded trial (each group n = 54). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving ≥ 75% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) at 24 weeks. Key secondary outcomes included 24‐week PASI 90 and 100, static Physician's Global Assessment (sPGA) score of 0 or 1, and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) score of 0 or 1. Safety events at week 24 were analysed using Fisher's exact test. Missing data were imputed using nonresponder imputation. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02634801) and EudraCT (2015‐002649‐69). Results: At week 24, more ixekizumab‐treated patients achieved PASI 75 [91% vs. 22% FAEs (P < 0·001) and 70% methotrexate (P = 0·014)], PASI 90 [80% vs. 9% FAEs (P < 0·001) and 39% methotrexate (P < 0·001)] and PASI 100 [41% vs. 4% FAEs (P < 0·001) and 13% methotrexate (P = 0·0041)], as well as sPGA (0,1) and DLQI (0,1). Conclusions: Ixekizumab was superior in inducing PASI 75/90/100, sPGA (0,1) and DLQI (0,1) responses at week 24 compared with methotrexate and FAEs. Safety profiles for all treatments were consistent with prior studies. What's already known about this topic? Fumaric acid esters (FAEs) and methotrexate are two frequently used conventional systemic therapies for chronic plaque psoriasis.A recent meta‐analysis of methotrexate showed a ≥ 75% reduction in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) rate of 45·2% from primary end points at either 12 or 16 weeks.Until recently, FAEs were licensed for psoriasis only in Germany, but were used in many other European countries as off‐label treatment of psoriasis. In 2017, the European Medicines Agency approved dimethyl fumarate, presumed to be the main active ingredient of FAEs, for the treatment of adult patients with moderate‐to‐severe chronic plaque psoriasis. What does this study add? This study is the first randomized, head‐to‐head trial comparing a biologic treatment with these therapies in a systemic‐treatment‐naive patient population.This study shows the low tolerability of FAEs leading to a significant discontinuation rate, the better tolerability and moderate efficacy of methotrexate, and the good tolerability, fast onset of action and high efficacy of ixekizumab in an unbiased comparison.Our findings reinforce the favourable risk–benefit profile of ixekizumab shown previously and provide further evidence of its efficacy at 24 weeks. Plain language summary available online [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes and immune dysregulation, leading to plaques covered in scales. In the last decade studies have exhibited an association between autoimmune disorders, like psoriasis, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which are amphipathic cytotoxic peptides, like the active form cathelicidin, LL-37. LL-37, released from damaged keratinocytes, serves an important role in immune reactions as well as in the activation of cell proliferation. Material and methods: A comprehensive literature review was carried out, including articles retrieved from PubMed and Google Scholar between 2007 and 2024. The selected articles were published in English in peer- reviewed journals, and presented the keywords "psoriasis", "antimicrobial peptides", "cathelicidin (LL-37)", and "Toll-like receptors". Results: An increased concentration of AMPs, including LL-37, has been observed in psoriatic skin, linking their immune activities to the triggering of inflammation, independent of infection in the disease. LL-37's mechanism of antimicrobial activity includes priming keratinocytes for inflammation, acting on T- cells as autoantigens. Moreover, they activate dendritic cells (DCs) through endosomal Toll-like receptors (TLRs) 7, 8 and 9 leading to the release of Interferon-alpha (IFN-α), Interleukin- 12 (IL-12) and Interleukin-23 (IL-23), and the activation of T- and B-cells, promoting the immune reaction and proliferation of keratinocytes. The activation of TLRs 7, 8 and 9 can be engaged by self-nucleic acids bound to AMPs such as LL-37. In this regard, a study investigating the effect of TLR7, 8 and 9 antagonists as therapeutic agents in IL-23-induced psoriasis mouse models, demonstrated that these antagonists decreased expression of IL-23 and Th17 cytokines, inhibited epidermal hyperplasia and inflammasome activation, and blocked IL-12 expression. Conclusions: This review underlines the positive correlation between high levels of LL-37 in psoriatic skin lesions and disease activity, indicating endosomal TLR-antagonists as a potential therapeutic approach for psoriasis given the importance of TLR 7, 8 and 9 for LL-37 activity. Further research is needed to investigate the effectiveness as well as evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of TLR-antagonists as potential treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are regional differences in the prevalence of psoriasis between countries, as well as within countries. However, regional determinants of differences in prevalence are not yet understood. The aim of this study was to identify sociodemographic and environmental determinants of regional prevalence rates for psoriasis. Analyses were based on German outpatient billing data from statutory health insurance, together with data from databases on sociodemographic and environment factors at the county level (N = 402) for 2015-2017. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables. To identify determinants for prevalence at the county level, spatiotemporal regression analysis was performed, with prevalence as the dependent variable, and the number of physicians, mean age, mean precipitation, sunshine hours, mean temperature, level of urbanity, and the German Index of Socioeconomic Deprivation (GISD) as independent variables. Mean prevalence of psoriasis increased from 168.63 per 10,000 in 2015 to 173.54 per 10,000 in 2017 for Germany as a whole, with high regional variation. Five determinants were detected (p < 0.05). The prevalence increased by 4.18 per 10,000 persons with SHI with each GISD unit, and by 3.76 per 10,000 with each year increase in age. Each additional hour of sunshine resulted in a decrease of 0.04 and each °C increase in mean temperature resulted in an increase of 4.22. Each additional dermatologist per 10,000 inhabitants resulted in a decrease of 0.07. In conclusion, sociodemographic and environmental factors result in significant differences in prevalence of psoriasis, even within-country.

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis vulgaris (PV) are almost mutually exclusive diseases with different immune polarizations, mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Switches to the other disease ("Flip-Flop" [FF] phenomenon) can occur with or without systemic treatment and are often referred to as paradoxical reactions under biological therapy., Methods: The objective was to develop a diagnostic algorithm by combining clinical criteria of AD and PV to identify FF patients. The algorithm was prospectively validated in patients enrolled in the CK-CARE registry in Bonn, Germany. Afterward, algorithm refinements were implemented based on machine learning., Results: Three hundred adult Caucasian patients were included in the validation study (n = 238 with AD, n = 49 with PV, n = 13 with FF; mean age 41.2 years; n = 161 [53.7%] female). The total FF scores of the PV and AD groups differed significantly from the FF group in the validation data (p < .001). The predictive mean generalized Youden-Index of the initial model was 78.9% [95% confidence interval 72.0%-85.6%] and the accuracy was 89.7%. Disease group-specific sensitivity was 100% (FF), 95.0% (AD), and 61.2% (PV). The specificity was 89.2% (FF), 100% (AD), and 100% (PV), respectively., Conclusion: The FF algorithm represents the first validated tool to identify FF patients., (© 2023 The Authors. Allergy published by European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Psoriasis can involve the skin, joints, nails and cardiovascular system and result in a significant impairment in quality of life. Studies have shown a lower response rate to systemic anti-sporiatic therapies in smokers, and smoking is a trigger factor for psoriasis. The aim of this study was therefore to analyse the response to systemic therapies for psoriasis, with a focus on smoking. Prospectively collected data from patients with moderate to severe psoriasis included in the national psoriasis registries for Germany and Switzerland (Pso-Best and SDNTT) were analysed. Therapy response was defined as reaching a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) reduction of 75%, PASI ≤ 3 or Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) ≤ 1. Out of 5,346 patients included in these registries, 1,264 met the inclusion criteria for this study. In the smoking group, 715 (60.6%) reached therapy response at month 3, compared with 358 (63.7%) in the non-smoking group (p ≤ 0.269), 659 (74.1%) vs. 330 (77%) reached therapy response at month 6 (p ≤ 0.097), and 504 (76.6%) vs. 272 (79.0%) at month 12 (p ≤ 0.611). Therefore, these data do not show that smoking affects the response rate of anti-psoriatic therapy after 3, 6 and 12 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The objective of this study was to assess the current diagnostic delay in axial SpA (axSpA) and to analyse factors associated with it. Methods A stratified sample of subjects with a diagnosis of axSpA (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision code M45) was drawn from health insurance data in Germany and was questioned on disease-related, lifestyle and socio-economic characteristics. The diagnostic delay was calculated as the time from back pain onset until a diagnosis of axSpA. A multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to explore factors associated with the diagnostic delay. Results Among 1677 patients with axSpA included in the analysis, the mean diagnostic delay was 5.7 years (median 2.3). Of those, 407 patients were diagnosed in 1996–2005 and 484 patients in 2006–2015. The mean diagnostic delay was not substantially different in both periods: 6.3 years (median 2.6) and 7.4 (2.7), respectively. Multivariable linear regression revealed that female sex [β = 1.85 (95% CI 1.06, 2.65)], negative HLA-B27 status [β = 3.61 (95% CI 2.07, 5.14)], presence of psoriasis [β = 1.40 (95% CI 0.08, 2.73)] and younger age at symptom onset [β = 1.91 (95% CI 1.53, 2.29)] were factors associated with a longer diagnostic delay. Conclusion The diagnostic delay in axSpA is still unacceptably long. Patients who are female, young at symptom onset, HLA-B27 negative or have psoriasis have a longer diagnostic delay. Specific referral strategies might be necessary in order to decrease the diagnostic delay in patients presenting with these characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Different phenotypes have been described in psoriasis. Few details are known about the topology of patients in routine care. Objectives: To characterize the frequency and distribution of body sites affected by psoriasis in Germany. Methods: Data from a national cross‐sectional study (PsoHealth2) were analysed. Each practice consecutively recruited 20 patients independently of treatment. Topical distribution was identified with a detailed grid scheme of 1424 squares filled by the patient. Psoriasis history, clinical findings, comorbidity and patient‐reported outcomes were obtained. Results: In total, 2009 patients with psoriasis were observed. Nineteen per cent of patients had psoriatic arthritis, 65·4% had scalp involvement and 35·6% had nail involvement; in 40·5% of patients, their first‐degree relatives also had psoriasis. In total, 1927 (95·9%) provided complete grid data. The mean number of grids marked was 152·4 ± 193·2, corresponding to 10·7% of body surface area. The most frequently affected body areas were the elbows, knees, lower legs and scalp (65–78%). In a linear regression analysis (corrected R² = 0·093), the strongest predictors of reductions in health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), measured by the Dermatology Life Quality Index, were having the hands (β = 0·147; P = 0·000), arms (β = 0·097; P = 0·008), genitals (β = 0·080; P = 0·010), neck (β = –0·072; P = 0·043), scalp (β = 0·068; P = 0·010) and nails affected (β = 0·064; P = 0·005). Conclusions: Typical psoriatic lesions are found in real‐world care. However, smaller areas are important determinants of reductions in HRQoL. What's already known about this topic? Psoriasis can occur on all areas of the body, with a preference for extensor locations. What does this study add? In a large patient sample reflecting the routine German population with psoriasis, the most frequently affected areas are the elbows, knees, lower legs and scalp (65–78%), which also provide the largest mean body surface area.Quality of life impairment was predicted by younger age, female sex and psoriasis on the hands, arms, genitals, neck, scalp and nails. Such sensitive areas, although constituting only small areas, require particular focus in an individualized treatment approach. Linked Editorial:Gisondi. Br J Dermatol 2019; 181:229–230. Respond to this article [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and psoriasis (PsO) have a significant impact on HRQOL and work productivity loss. In patients with both PsA and PsO, the full extent of the physical and emotional burden of joint- and skin-related symptoms is less understood from the patient perspective.Methods: A cross-sectional study of PsO patients with PsA from the US, France, and Germany was conducted using an online survey. Data on demographics, PsO severity by patient-reported body surface area involvement (BSA), PsA severity by RAPID3, impact of PsO and PsA using Patient Global Assessment (1-5), and novel questions exploring the emotional burden of joint/skin-related symptoms were collected. Multivariate regression analyses examined severity of joint and skin symptoms as predictors of quality of life (QoL), measured by PsAQoL, and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI).Results: Of the 439 patients, 23.9% had mild (RAPID3 of 0-2) and 76.1% had moderate-severe PsA (RAPID3 of 2.1-10), while 51% had mild and 49% had moderate-severe PsO (≥ 3 palms of the hand for BSA). Multivariate analyses showed that severity of joint symptoms was strongly associated with lower QoL (t = 13.15), followed by impact of skin symptoms (t = 5.11), and age (t = − 4.73), all p < 0.0001. About 57% of all patients reported a DLQI > 5, indicating a moderate-to-extremely large effect of psoriasis on HRQoL. Joint severity and impact of joint symptoms were the strongest predictors of WPAI. Patients also associated skin and/or joint symptoms with a variety of emotions and QoL measures that were not captured on the validated scales (fatigue, how they think of themselves, how others thought of them, making a first impression etc.).Conclusions: In this study, both skin and joint symptoms had a broad, meaningful impact on patient QoL, work productivity, daily activities, and emotional well-being. These data highlighted the unique and significant impact of PsA among patients with PsO.Funding: Eli Lilly and Company. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determinants of costs and benefits in psoriasis routine care: results from a cross-sectional nationwide study in Germany The disease-related costs of psoriasis are of considerable importance, as the drug expenses for psoriasis in Germany have risen continuously in recent years.1 Overall, the economic burden of psoriasis markedly depends on disease-specific characteristics such as severity and comorbidity.2,3 Furthermore, there are differences in the healthcare costs between patients treated with biologics compared with those using traditional systemic treatments.4,5 A cross-sectional study in 1158 adult patients with psoriasis across Germany was conducted.6 Patients completed a questionnaire on treatment satisfaction, patient-relevant treatment benefit (Patient Benefit Index, PBI), quality of life (Dermatology Life Quality Index, DLQI) and disease-related costs. The total annual costs determined in this study amounted to 5543€ ± 8044€ per patient, including expenses for the statutory health insurance (SHI) of 4940€ ± 7533€.1 To identify the determinants of these costs, subgroup analyses have now been conducted. [Extracted from the article]

The population-based prevalence of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is still unclear and not well described globally. The aim of this study was to conduct a population-based prevalence projection and provide long-term future estimations of PsA patients in Germany until 2050, using the illness-death model and based on historical data. We analyzed the national statutory health insurance data of 65 million population in the German Institute for Medical Documentation and Information between January 2009 and December 2012. We constructed an estimation of the PsA burden among the German population using the relevant epidemiological parameters to project the numbers of patients with PsA in Germany until 2050 under five possible scenarios by varying the incidence and mortality. The overall conservatively estimated prevalence of PsA in Germany in 2019 was 0.31% (95% CI 0.28-0.36%). Women contribute a higher prevalence than men in all five scenarios. In the assumed scenarios with increased incidence, the prevalence of PsA at 60 years of age could rise from 1% in 2019 to more than 3% in 2050 for both genders, with the increase particularly pronounced for women, reaching around 3.5%. However, in the assumed scenarios with decreasing incidence, the prevalence curve may flatten and begin a decreasing trend from 2035 to 2050 for both genders, achieving a prevalence of less than 1% in 2050. Our research is to generate assumed population-based data on PsA in Germany that can serve as a reference for public health stakeholders to prepare an optional intervention. We would expect worryingly high numbers in the coming decades if preventive strategies are not implemented. In the long term, it will be necessary to implement preventive strategies to identify predictors and treat psoriasis symptoms early in order to delay or even prevent the transition of psoriasis to PsA., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Abstract: Background: Though psoriasis poses a substantial chronic socio‐economic burden, few studies have addressed the economic impact in Germany. Objectives: The objective was to evaluate the annual costs of psoriasis in Germany from the societal perspective. Methods: A cross‐sectional study was performed in randomly selected German dermatology practices and clinics in 2013/2014 using standardized questionnaires of illness‐related costs. Costs were grouped by perspective and category as well as analysed by sex and age. Group differences were tested by non‐parametric tests. Results: Complete data were obtained from 1158 patients in 132 centres. Annual average costs for patients with psoriasis: total costs € 5543 ± € 8044, systemic treatment costs (paid by the statutory health insurances [SHI]) € 3733 ± € 7322, out‐of‐pocket costs € 224 ± € 406, total SHI costs € 4940 ± € 7533, direct costs € 5164 ± € 7581 and indirect costs € 379 ± € 2087. Significant higher costs in male and significant lower costs in 65+‐year‐old patients were found. Conclusions: Psoriasis induces a considerable economic burden. Between 2003 and 2014, costs have markedly shifted from hospital, out‐of‐pocket and indirect costs towards systemic drug costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]