The Feasibility of an Interdisciplinary Approach on the Management of Psoriasis in South Africa.

CONTEXT: Psoriasis is an immune-mediated, inflammatory skin disease associated with comorbidities such as psoriatic arthritis, depression, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Due to its visibility, psoriasis can induce stress and have a negative impact on a patient's quality of life. Current medical interventions are often ineffective and costly and are associated with undesirable side effects, thus emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to treatment.

OBJECTIVE

The study intended to explore the feasibility of an interdisciplinary approach between dermatologists and somatologists in the holistic management of psoriasis.

DESIGN

The research team performed a narrative review by searching for scientific articles in the databases Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Medline, including relevant observational studies, systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and meta-analyses on the diagnosis and management of psoriasis.

SETTING

The review took place at Durban University of Technology library, Durban, South Africa.

RESULTS

Psoriasis is a huge medical burden. It has a negative psychological impact on quality of life. Patients are not satisfied with the current treatment approach and they prefer alternative therapies. Spa therapy could be used in conjunction with medical therapy for the management of psoriasis. Through water or spa therapy, it has been shown that trace elements in mineral waters are absorbed through the skin and perhaps modulate the immune system.

CONCLUSIONS

The current review has provided some practical advice on how to manage psoriasis in a holistic manner. Somatology training institutions should consider incorporating Pso Well training in their program, thereby keeping abreast of new developments associated with psoriasis management. MBCT could be added to the set of holistic interventions for patients suffering from psoriasis, particularly those who suffer from poor psychological well-being. Robust clinical tests should be performed to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, such as integrative patient management between the two professions.