Cardiovascular disease risk assessment in psoriasis patients

Abstract

Background Psoriasis is a significant health problem that affects 2.2% of the UK population. Recent evidence also suggests an association between psoriasis and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). As such, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines have made recommendations pertaining to cardiovascular risk management in psoriasis patients.

Aims An audit was conducted on a single general practice to evaluate how well the practice was managing the CVD risk of its psoriasis patients on repeat prescription.

Methods A search was conducted on the practice’s computer database to identify all patients who are coded as suffering from psoriasis. Prescription records were then reviewed to ascertain whether the patient was currently on repeat prescription for psoriasis treatment. Patient records were then used to determine the severity of these patients’ psoriasis, and whether their CVD risks were calculated and managed appropriately.

Results A total of 32 patients on repeat prescription for psoriasis were identified. The practice performed moderately well, with 87.5% of its adult severe psoriasis patients, 73.9% of its psoriasis patients aged 40–74 years and 100% of its psoriasis patients with a 10-year CVD risk ≥ 20% being adequately managed as per NICE guidelines.

Conclusion This audit highlighted to the practice’s clinicians that psoriasis patients require more CVD risk monitoring to achieve ideal 100% standards. Appointments were arranged for patients whose CVD risk had not been adequately assessed. Plan to re-audit in 12 months, and at least every five years thereafter.