SCALP PAIN CHARACTERISTICS AND RELATED FACTORS IN PATIENTS WITH SCALP PSORIASIS
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Abstract
Objective: To investigate the characteristics of scalp pain in patients with scalp psoriasis and evaluate the association between epidemiological and clinical factors with the severity and nature of pain. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 107 patients with scalp psoriasis at Ho Chi Minh City Dermatology Hospital from October 2024 to January 2025. Data on epidemiological characteristics, clinical features, and disease severity were collected. Scalp pain was assessed through direct interviews using the Pain Quality Assessment Scale (PQAS), and pain threshold was measured using a digital pressure algometer. Results: A total of 63.6% of patients with scalp psoriasis experienced scalp pain, with a mean pain intensity of 5.2 ± 2.1. Scalp pain was significantly associated with disease severity, as measured by PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index), SPGA (Scalp Physician Global Assessment), and PSSI (Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index). Patients with higher PASI or PSSI scores tended to experience more severe pain (p < 0.001). Common pain characteristics include discomfort (97.1%), itching (94.1%), surface pain (94.1%), tingling (92.7%), diffuse pain (92.7%), and deep pain (88.3%). Scalp pain significantly impacts patients' quality of life, particularly affecting mood (97.1%), daily activities (91.2%), enjoyment of life (86.8%), and sleep (85.3%). Conclusion: Scalp pain is a common symptom in patients with scalp psoriasis, closely associated with disease severity and significantly affecting quality of life. Proper assessment and management of scalp pain should be emphasized in psoriasis treatment to improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.
Article Details
Keywords
psoriasis, skin pain, pain threshold, scalp psoriasis
References


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