Psoriasis Comorbidity Screening — SCE Dermatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyInflammatory DermatosesPsoriasis Comorbidity ScreeningSCE Dermatology

A 40-year-old woman has psoriasis. Her dermatologist explains the concept of comorbidity screening. According to BAD guidelines, what screening should be performed at the initial dermatology assessment for psoriasis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Assessment of psoriatic arthritis (screening questionnaire), cardiovascular risk factors (BMI, BP, lipids, glucose/HbA1c), mental health (anxiety/depression screening), and alcohol/smoking status

BAD guidelines recommend comprehensive comorbidity screening at initial psoriasis assessment: (1) PsA screening (validated questionnaires — PEST or CASPAR referral criteria); (2) Cardiovascular risk assessment (BMI, waist circumference, BP, fasting lipids, glucose/HbA1c, QRISK3); (3) Mental health screening (PHQ-2/PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-2/7 for anxiety — prevalence 2-3× higher in psoriasis); (4) Lifestyle factors (alcohol intake — AUDIT-C, smoking status); (5) NAFLD risk. This holistic assessment recognises psoriasis as a systemic inflammatory disease and enables early intervention for comorbidities that significantly impact mortality and morbidity. Regular re-screening at follow-up visits is recommended.

Reference: BAD 2020 Psoriasis Comorbidities; NICE CG153