LAUSR

BACKGROUND Factors that are associated with patient-reported importance of obtaining complete or almost complete clearance of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD) are unknown. OBJECTIVES To investigate the importance, and associated factors, of obtaining complete or almost complete clearance of psoriasis or AD. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 4,016 and 3,842 adults with psoriasis and AD. RESULTS AD patients reported significantly greater importance of almost complete or complete skin clearance compared with psoriasis. For both patient groups, almost complete was more important that complete skin clearance. Increasing disease severity as well as itch and skin pain were significantly associated with perceived importance of skin clearance in both diseases. AD and psoriasis located on the face or neck, as well as psoriasis located on the palms, soles or genitals were significantly associated with patient-perceived importance of almost complete skin clearance. Only 7% and 27% of patients with severe AD and psoriasis, respectively, were currently on a systemic therapy. LIMITATIONS Specific reasons for infrequent use of systemic treatments was not examined. CONCLUSION Patients with psoriasis or AD express a strong request for almost complete or complete skin clearance. Patient education and effective therapies should be utilized to reduce disease severity.