A prospective, interventional assessment of the impact of ustekinumab treatment on psoriasis-related work productivity and activity impairment

Abstract

Background: The negative impact of psoriasis on quality of life is well documented. Psoriasis is also associated with impairments in work productivity and daily activities. Objectives: This study was conducted to prospectively measure the impact of ustekinumab treatment on work productivity and daily activity impairments due to psoriasis, using the Work Productivity and Activity Index: Psoriasis instrument. Methods: Thirty-two patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis received 36 weeks of ustekinumab and were followed every 4 weeks. During each visit, patients were evaluated using the Psoriasis Area Severity Index and Work Productivity and Activity Index: Psoriasis instrument. Results: Thirty-two patients completed the study. There was no change in unemployment rate after treatment. Twenty-two patients who were employed at both baseline and week 36 experienced a significant decrease in total work productivity impairment, presenteeism and a non-significant decrease in absenteeism. All patients demonstrated significant reduction in total activity impairment. Limitations: This study was limited by the lack of a placebo group and a small sample size. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the benefits of ustekinumab treatment in terms of reducing psoriasis-related work productivity and activity impairments among patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis.

Keywords:

• biologic therapy
• patient-reported outcomes
• treatment outcomes
• cost savings

Disclosure statement

All other authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Funding information

Funding was provided by Janssen Scientific Affairs. Janssen Scientific Affairs had no role in the design and conduct of the study; in the collection, analysis and interpretation of data; or in the preparation, review, or approval of the manuscript. John Koo is a clinical researcher for Pfizer, Amgen, Janssen and Merck. He is a speaker for Leo Pharma, Abbvie and Celgene. Dr Koo has no stocks, employment, or board memberships with any pharmaceutical company.