Abstract and Introduction
Abstract
Skin diseases are among the most common health problems worldwide and are associated with a considerable burden. The burden of skin disease is a multidimensional concept that encompasses psychological, social and financial consequences of the skin disease on the patients, their families and on society. Chronic and incurable skin diseases, such as psoriasis and eczema, are associated with significant morbidity in the form of physical discomfort and impairment of patients' quality of life; whereas malignant diseases, such as malignant melanoma, carry substantial mortality. With the availability of a wide range of health status and quality-of-life measures, the effects of most skin diseases on patients' lives can be measured efficiently. The aim of this review is to present some of the published data in order to highlight the magnitude of the burden associated with some common skin diseases and also to suggest ways to quantify this burden of skin disease.
Introduction
Skin is an extraordinary structure. It is frequently damaged because it is directly in the 'firing line' and, for this reason, skin diseases are very common. There are more than 3000 known diseases of the skin.[1] A cosmetically disfiguring disorder can have a significant impact, and can cause considerable discomfort and disability. Although most of the chronic skin conditions, such as atopic eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo and leg ulcers, are not immediately life-threatening, they are recognized as a considerable burden on health status and quality of life (QoL), including physical, emotional and financial consequences. On the other hand, skin cancers, such as malignant melanoma, are potentially life threatening and their burden is associated with the mortality that they carry.
The aim of this review is to collect and present some of the available published data in order to highlight the magnitude of the burden associated with some more commonly seen skin diseases and also to suggest the ways to quantify this burden of skin diseases.
Expert Rev Pharmacoeconomics Outcomes Res. 2009;9(3):271-283. © 2009 Expert Reviews Ltd.
Cite this: Burden of Skin Diseases - Medscape - Jun 01, 2009.
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