Adolescents with Psoriasis in the United States: Current Treatment Landscape and Unmet Needs

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

7-1-2026

Publication Title

J Am Acad Dermatol

Keywords

Dermatology

Abstract

Introduction: To inform optimal patient-centered treatment strategies and disease management approaches, we sought to characterize current therapeutic approaches and unmet needs from the perspectives of adolescents with PsO who are candidates for systemic therapy, caregivers, and HCPs. Methods: A US, cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted in March-May 2025 among the following groups of respondents: 1) adolescents (12-17 years) with a self-reported diagnosis of PsO and eligible for systemic therapy, as per IPC guidelines; 2) caregivers; and 3) HCPs, defined as dermatologists and advanced practice providers, with experience treating adolescent patients with PsO. Results: Sample included 200 adolescents (mean age 15 years, 54% male, 30% self-reported BSA ≥ 10%), 200 caregivers (mean age 42 years, 52% male), and 101 HCPs. Oral therapy ranked highest in treatment preference among adolescents (59%), caregivers (51%), and HCPs (47%), followed by topicals (adolescents 29%, caregivers 37%, HCPs 26%) and injectables (adolescents 13%, caregivers 12%, HCPs 21%). 85% of adolescents treated with an injectable expressed willingness to switch to a new oral treatment. 58% of HCPs reported mode of administration as a leading disadvantage for injectables. Caregivers cited lack of symptom improvement (50%), side effects (41%), and dislike of needles (34%) as top reasons for discontinuing injectables in adolescents. Conclusion: There remains an unmet need for oral PsO treatments that offer high skin clearance and a favorable safety profile, enabling adolescents, caregivers, and HCPs to achieve optimal outcomes without compromising efficacy, safety, and the preferred oral administration route.

Volume

95

Issue

1

First Page

AB37

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