Psoriasis Vulgaris in Libyan Patients: Demographic Characteristics, Disease Severity, and Body Mass Index

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder mainly driven by T-lymphocyte activity. It is characterized by sharply demarcated, scaly, and indurated erythematous plaques, commonly affecting the extensor surfaces, scalp, nails, genital area, and lumbosacral region. Aim of the Study: • To analyze the demographic characteristics of psoriasis patients in Ajdabia, Libya. • To evaluate disease severity using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and to assess patients’ Body Mass Index (BMI). Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study included 64 patients clinically diagnosed with psoriasis vulgaris who attended the dermatology outpatient clinic at Ejdabia Hospital. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Detailed medical histories were recorded, including disease onset, symptoms, affected sites, family history, and triggering or aggravating factors. Each patient underwent a thorough dermatological examination. Disease severity was assessed using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated using standard formulae. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 18. Descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, were reported. The Chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables, with a p-value < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Patients’ ages ranged from 7 to 71 years, with a mean age of 36.7 years. The most represented age group was 21–40 years (32.8%), followed by 41–60 years (28.1%). Females were more common in the under-20 age group, while males predominated in those over 60. Overall, males slightly outnumbered females (53.6%). Plaque-type psoriasis was the most common clinical presentation (68.7%), followed by scalp involvement (14%). In 54% of cases, disease duration ranged from 1 to 5 years. A positive family history was noted in 53.1% of patients. PASI scores indicated moderate disease severity (score 6–10) in 67.1% of patients, while 12.3% had severe psoriasis. Most patients had a normal BMI, whereas 29% were classified as overweight. Conclusion: The mean age of patients was 36.7 years, and more than half had a positive family history of psoriasis. Moderate disease severity was most commonly observed. PASI remains the standard tool for assessing psoriasis severity, particularly in clinical trials. Monitoring BMI is essential, as obesity is an independent risk factor that may influence disease progression and treatment outcomes.