Guideline calls for more joined-up care between dermatologists and rheumatologists
The authors of a groundbreaking guideline on psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis published today (Friday) believe that it is the “missing link” that will bring about improved diagnosis and treatment by GPs in primary care. The guideline also emphasises that greater co-ordination in the care delivered by dermatologists and rheumatologists can result in much improved outcomes for patients.
Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory disease that affects the skin and joints. Over 100,000 people in Scotland are affected – 20,000 of whom are likely to have psoriatic arthritis also. The impact on quality of life is the equivalent to heart disease, diabetes, depression and cancer.
The guideline from the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN), part of NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS), is published on World Psoriasis Day and is the first of its kind internationally to draw together the best available evidence on diagnosing and treating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, recognising the need to see the relationship between both conditions and treat them in a co-ordinated fashion.
Key recommendations contained within the guideline include the following:
- Patients should have an annual review with their GP
- Patients should have access to appropriate multidisciplinary care
- Assessment of patients should include psychosocial measures, with referral to mental health services as appropriate
- Active involvement of patients in managing their care should be encouraged.
The guideline includes information on the following areas:
- Diagnosis, assessment and monitoring
- Treatment in primary care (GPs)
- Treatment in secondary care (hospital setting)
- Pharmacological and biological therapy
- Patient information
- A care pathway between primary and secondary care.
Dr David Burden, Consultant Dermatologist at Glasgow’s Western Infirmary and chair of the guideline development group, said: “This guideline can be the missing link for GPs to improve their knowledge of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, and to improve the care that these patients receive. Improved knowledge and co-ordinated treatment are key to managing a condition that can have a significant effect on people’s quality of life.”