Quality of Life in the Dermatology Practice

Abstract

Dermatologic disease can create significant burden, interfering with relationships, daily activities, work environments, personal well-being, and physical functioning. The impact of these diseases on quality of life (QOL) can be significant, and the psychosocial impact of many dermatologic diseases is often more impactful than the physical appearance or symptoms alone. We now know that many chronic dermatologic conditions are more than skin deep, and the impact once believed to be merely superficial is as complex physiologically as it is psychosocially. Any patients that have diseases with external features may have feelings of anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Fortunately, we are learning to evaluate and treat the whole person and not just a patient’s skin. Expert dermatologic care is much more than assessing and treating the physical appearance or symptoms. Dermatologic conditions such as acne, alopecia, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and rosacea are unique, with differing presentations, symptoms, and psychosocial impacts. These conditions have a myriad of therapies available; however, selecting the most appropriate therapy for a given patient at a given time can be challenging, oftentimes more challenging than just establishing the correct diagnosis. In this chapter we explore how quality of life may impact dermatology patients, and how incorporating quality-of-life assessment can help providers select appropriate therapy, improving patient adherence and outcomes.