Impact of Generalized Pustular Psoriasis from the Perspective of People Living with the Condition: Results of an Online Survey

Abstract

Background: Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare disease characterized by episodic worsening (flares). Knowledge of the burden of GPP and the experience of affected individuals is limited.

Aims: To conduct a survey of people living with GPP to understand how they experience GPP flares, which therapies they have received and are receiving, and how GPP impacts their activities of daily living.

Methods: The online survey consisted of 43 questions answered by individuals recruited from an opt-in market research database. The research team performed a targeted outreach to identify individuals with GPP. The survey included screening questions to determine if potential participants qualified for inclusion. Eligible individuals were US residents aged ≥ 18 years who self-reported that they had been diagnosed with GPP. Respondents provided consent to participate and received compensation (fair market value) for their time.

Results: Between August 4 and 14, 2020, 66 people living with GPP in the USA were surveyed. Most participants were female, aged 40-59 years, had been diagnosed ≥ 1 year previously, and had experienced ≥ 2 flares in the past year. A substantial proportion of respondents had symptoms for years, had consulted multiple healthcare professionals, and experienced misdiagnoses before receiving a diagnosis of GPP. Emotional stress was the most common cause of flares and many respondents reported a fear of flares. Respondents defined flares by the presence of itching, an increase in the size of the affected area, more crusts or pustules, and fatigue. A change in mood was the most burdensome symptom. Most respondents were receiving topical corticosteroids and only approximately one-third felt their condition was well controlled. GPP had an impact on activities of daily living even in the absence of flares and many respondents felt that their physician did not understand the level of emotional, psychological, or physical pain caused by GPP.

Conclusions: GPP imposes a substantial emotional burden on patients, with wide-ranging impacts on activities of daily living beyond the physical discomfort of skin lesions.