Explore the rising trend of pediatric psoriasis, its causes, and the latest treatment options highlighted at the SDPA conference.
1 Big Thing: The prevalence of pediatric psoriasis is rising, raising significant concerns within the medical community.
Why it matters: Early diagnosis and effective management are crucial to prevent long-term physical and psychological impacts on children.
Between the lines: Factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and improved diagnostic techniques contribute to this increase.
Go deeper:
Key Insights from the SDPA Summer Conference
The 30th anniversary of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) was marked by a significant discussion on pediatric psoriasis during their Summer Conference in San Diego, California. Dr. Lisa Swanson, a prominent pediatric dermatologist, led a session highlighting the alarming rise in psoriasis cases among children.
Understanding Pediatric Psoriasis
Dr. Lisa Swanson’s extensive experience at Ada West Dermatology and St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital provided valuable insights into the condition.
Genetic Predisposition: Psoriasis often runs in families. Children with a family history of psoriasis are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
Environmental Triggers: Factors such as infections, skin injuries, and psychological stress can trigger psoriasis in genetically predisposed children. Dr. Swanson emphasized that environmental changes, including climate change, might influence the gut microbiome and immune responses.
Improved Awareness and Diagnosis: Better awareness among healthcare professionals and improved diagnostic tools contribute to the increased identification of pediatric psoriasis cases.
Coverage: SDPA Annual Summer Dermatology Conference, June 5-9, 2024, in San Diego, California
Addressing the Challenges
Treatment Options:
- Topical Steroids: These remain the primary treatment for pediatric psoriasis.
- Systemic Disease Management: Recognized as a systemic disease, psoriasis requires regular screening for associated conditions like obesity, diabetes, hypertension, lipid abnormalities, arthritis, depression, and anxiety. Systemic therapies such as cyclosporine, acitretin, and methotrexate are considered when systemic effects are significant.
- Biologics in Kids: The approval of biologics for pediatric use represents a major advancement. Drugs like etanercept, ustekinumab, ixekizumab, and secukinumab are now approved for use in children as young as 4 to 6 years old.
Psoriasis as a Systemic Disease
Inflammation Reduction: Treatments like Stelara® have been shown to reduce systemic and vascular inflammation in moderate to severe psoriasis patients, according to the presentation. PET CT scans reveal decreased inflammation in various organs.
Mortality Reduction: Long-term use of biologics, such as Humira, has been linked to a significant reduction in all-cause mortality, according to the presentation. A study involving over 6,000 psoriasis patients indicated a 58% lower mortality rate over 10 years compared to expected rates.
Conclusion
The rise in pediatric psoriasis calls for a concerted effort from dermatology PAs, guided by the latest research and treatments, to provide excellent dermatologic care.
By Michael Rubio, MPAS, PA-C