Increased Prevalence of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in Psoriasis and Dermatitis (Eczema)

Skinmed. 2021 Apr 1;19(2):120-127. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

Inflammatory cutaneous diseases, such as psoriasis, are associated with considerable psychosocial impact and alcohol consumption; however, this association with other skin diseases, such as dermatitis (eczema), is less explored. We examined patients with psoriasis and dermatitis for excessive alcohol consumption using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). For this cross-sectional, observational study, 385 patients of both genders, aged ≥18 years, who were diagnosed with either psoriasis or dermatitis, were recruited. The primary outcome measure was the AUDIT score. The prevalence of alcohol use disorder (AUD) was 28% in patients with psoriasis and 23% in patients with dermatitis. Men in both groups had statistically significant more hazardous drinking pattern (AUDIT score ≥ 8) when compared with women. The prevalence of the dermatology life quality index (DLQI) ≥ 11 was 57% in psoriasis patients and 51% in dermatitis patients. Accordingly, alcohol consumption behavior in eczema patients was comparable to those with psoriasis. Based upon the research, it is recommended that patients with inflammatory skin diseases must be asked and screened for their alcohol consumption in order to choose appropriate systemic treatment options.

Publication types

  • Observational Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcohol Drinking / psychology*
  • Alcohol-Related Disorders / psychology
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Eczema / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prevalence
  • Psoriasis / psychology*
  • Quality of Life / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult