Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI)

The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) is used for the assessment and quantification of psoriasis severity. The PASI score provides a comprehensive evaluation of the extent and severity of psoriasis by considering the redness, thickness, and scaling of the lesions, as well as the area of the body affected. The clinical utility of the PASI score lies in its ability to monitor disease progression, assess the efficacy of therapeutic interventions, and facilitate standardized communication about disease severity among healthcare professionals. It is particularly useful in clinical trials and in the management of patients undergoing systemic or phototherapy treatments for psoriasis. However, the PASI score may not be suitable for all patient populations. It has limitations in patients with mild disease or those with psoriasis affecting less than 10% of the body surface area, as it may not accurately reflect changes in these cases. Additionally, it does not consider the impact of psoriasis on a patient's quality of life, including pruritus or pain, which are significant aspects of the disease. Therefore, it should be used in conjunction with other assessment tools for a comprehensive evaluation of psoriasis.

Reference

Jochen Schmitt, Gottfried Wozel. The psoriasis area and severity index is the adequate criterion to define severity in chronic plaque-type psoriasis. Dermatology. 2005;210(3):194-9.