Opinion
Video
Lisa Swanson, MD, FAAD and Robert J. Casquejo, PA-C highlight the impact of plaque psoriasis on both moderate and mild patients, emphasizing the importance of addressing these concerns in patient care.
This is a video synopsis/summary of a panel discussion involving Lisa Swanson, MD, FAAD, and Robert J. Casquejo, PA-C.
In this discussion, the focus is on plaque psoriasis and its profound impact on individuals' self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life. The conversation involves observations from medical practice.
The participants acknowledge that psoriasis, a visible skin disease, has a significant psychosocial aspect, unlike conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. The visibility of psoriasis makes individuals more vulnerable to societal judgments and can lead to a range of emotional challenges.
The emphasis is on understanding not only the physiological aspects of psoriasis but also how it affects a person's daily life. The discussion highlights the psychosocial impact, especially for children who may face bullying and adults navigating the challenges of dating with a visible disease.
The conversation delves into the significance of mild psoriasis, noting that even a small affected area, depending on its location, can have a substantial impact on a person's life. Examples include a masseuse with psoriasis on their hands or someone with genital psoriasis, both facing potential stigma and challenges in their personal and professional lives.
Anecdotes are shared to illustrate the struggles individuals face, such as a surgeon with palm involvement feeling self-conscious about patient interactions. The conversation emphasizes that the impact of psoriasis goes beyond physical discomfort, affecting confidence, relationships, and daily activities.
The participants discuss scenarios where individuals may avoid intimacy or dating due to their condition, underlining the complex psychosocial dynamics at play. The conversation concludes with a recognition that even minor areas of involvement, such as 1% of the body, can lead to significant self-consciousness and psychological distress, highlighting the need for comprehensive management of both the physical and emotional aspects of psoriasis.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by DermatologyTimes editorial staff.
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