The Psychosocial Impact of Pediatric Vitiligo, Psoriasis, Eczema, and Alopecia: A Systematic Review

Author Type(s)

Student

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2024

DOI

10.1521/bumc.2024.88.4.297

Journal Title

Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic

Keywords

children, eczema, mental health, psoriasis, quality of life, therapy, vitiligo

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

Abstract

This review focuses on chronic pediatric skin conditions-vitiligo, psoriasis, alopecia, and eczema-and their profound psychosocial impact on children and adolescents. Currently, a comprehensive comparative analysis across these conditions is absent, and comparisons between diverse psychosocial measures are lacking. This review aims to bridge that gap through a systematic review analyzing studies from PubMed and Embase up to April 2023 according to PRISMA. The findings emphasize that psoriasis and vitiligo significantly diminish the quality of life (QoL) of young individuals, heightening their risk for concurrent mental health issues. Eczema also reduces QoL, while alopecia increases vulnerability to anxiety and depression. Severity of psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema correlates with worsened QoL, but longer disease duration leads to better physical functioning. Effective interventions identified include UVB light treatment and virtual support groups, notably improving vitiligo patients' QoL, while psychologist consultations enhance self-image and psychological well-being in those with psoriasis and eczema.

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