Priority 4 from the Psoriasis PSP

UNCERTAINTY: What is the best way to treat the symptoms of psoriasis: itching, burning, redness, scaling and flaking? (JLA PSP Priority 4)
Overall ranking 4
JLA question ID 0072/4
Explanatory note Not available for this PSP
Evidence

Shahwan Evidence of no significant difference in mean baseline itch scores in patients with psoriasis or atopic dermatitis who need treatment with systemic therapies.  Evidence that pruritus is a more significant component of psoriasis than previously recognised.  Pruritus in psoriasis has been associated with occupational impairment, anxiety, depression, and has a negative impact on overall quality of life, mood, concentration, sleep, sexual desire, and appetite.  Further research is needed. 

Van Laarhoven Evidence that placebo can have a substantial effect in the treatment of itch in dermatological patients with chronic itch due to a variety of skin diseases including psoriasis.  Further research needed.
Health Research Classification System category Skin
Extra information provided by this PSP
Original uncertainty examples How can itching be controlled properly?
Submitted by 54 uncertainties were submitted around this question
PSP information
PSP unique ID 0072
PSP name Psoriasis
Total number of uncertainties identified by this PSP. 55  (To see a full list of all uncertainties identified, please see the detailed spreadsheet held on the JLA website)
Date of priority setting workshop 17 September 2018