Psoriasis in children

Grantee: Professor Lone Skov, Department of Dermato-Allergology, Gentofte Hospital

Amount: DKK 4,500,000

Grant category: Research Grants in open competition

Year: 2014

Geography: Denmark

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with a prevalence of 2-3% in northern Europe. While considerable research exists on adults with psoriasis, there is little research on the condition in children. Identifying key factors associated with psoriasis in childhood may lead to more effective control and possibly even prevention of the condition.

The study aims to determine environmental and genetic risk factors relating to the development of psoriasis in children, the nature of stress related to the child and family, and quality of life. The project also aims to determine the link with risk factors of co-morbidity and the effect of early intensive treatment.

The study is led by Professor Lone Skov, Department of Dermato-Allergology, Gentofte Hospital, Denmark. The team will explore the following hypotheses:

  • Risk factors for early onset of psoriasis can be predicted
  • Early debut of psoriasis has a significant impact on quality of life and individual and family-related stress
  • Early intensive treatment leads to remission
  • There is already an increased risk of co-morbidity in children with psoriasis
  • Age at debut, risk factors and co-morbidity are related
    to the genetic risk.

The study offers a unique possibility to access data from children with psoriasis shortly after diagnosis, which in turn can pave the way for new and improved tools for assessing the impact of the condition on quality of life in a well-controlled study design.