How psoriasis is diagnosed differently in skin of color

Psoriasis is an inflammatory disorder that affects millions of people. A dermatologist discusses how psoriasis can be misdiagnosed in people with darker skin compared to patients with lighter skin.

Transcript

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Hi, Dr. Simmons. Is it more difficult to diagnose psoriasis in skin of color?

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That's a fantastic question, and it's also something I talk to my patients about regularly in clinic.

00:20

Psoriasis is a chronic multisystem inflammatory disorder that affects 125 million people worldwide.

00:27

Generally, white people are diagnosed with psoriasis more frequently than people of color. However, psoriasis is more easily identifiable in lighter

00:36

skin and may actually be misdiagnosed in people with darker skin. For instance, skin manifestations like red patches

00:42

may appear differently on darker skin tones. Patches may appear purple or even brown on darker skin, and sometimes the scales can be too thick to accurately

00:51

ascertain the color underneath. African-American patients may also experience more dyspigmentation than erythema

00:57

after an acute flare of psoriasis compared to white patients, which may make it more difficult to diagnose.

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Access to proper medication and treatment may also be limited for people of color. Studies show that Black people are less likely to receive biologic treatment than white people

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and may be less familiar with the treatment option itself. Less exposure to treatments or lack of understanding of biologics as a treatment option

01:20

can lead to some patients being wary in regard to new techniques that are invasive, such as needles. Access to dermatologists also plays

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a role in the undertreatment of psoriasis in people of color. Insurance, socioeconomic status, and other factors

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can affect accessibility for individuals to receive the care they need. Without the guidance of a health care professional,

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it can be difficult for patients to find long-lasting relief. Do your research, and find a dermatologist you trust.

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Together, you can develop a treatment plan that works for you.