Impact of childhood psoriasis on parents of affected children

Background Childhood diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, have a negative impact on quality of life (QoL) of parents. How pediatric psoriasis affects a parent's QoL is unknown. Objective To explore the impact of childhood psoriasis on the lives of the parents. Methods Semistructured interviews were conducted with 31 parents of children with psoriasis. Narrative data were analyzed and a conceptual framework of the effects of childhood psoriasis on parents was developed. Results All parents reported that their child's psoriasis caused a substantial, negative impact on their own QoL. A conceptual framework showed a negative impact on health and self-care, emotional well-being, family and social function, personal well-being, and life pursuits. Emotional well-being was the most affected domain. Limitations It was not possible to correlate psoriasis severity with parental QoL. Conclusion Childhood psoriasis alters the QoL of parents in multiple ways. Information from this study can be used to develop a QoL instrument to explore treatment and support strategies for families affected by pediatric psoriasis.