A Comparative Analysis Of The Therapeutic Effectiveness Of Dexamethasone And Infliximab In Psoriasis Patients

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes and dysregulation of T-cell–mediated cytokine pathways. The disease significantly impairs patients’ quality of life and often requires long-term pharmacological management. This study compares the therapeutic effectiveness of Dexamethasone (Corticosteroids) and Infliximab (Chimeric monoclonal antibody) in Psoriasis patients.

Methods: A comparative study was conducted for six months among 80 adults (aged 18-60yrs) with Psoriasis. Participants were grouped based on therapy with Dexamethasone or Infliximab. Clinical assessment using PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) and DLQI (Dermatology Life Quality Index) at baseline, week 4, week 12, and week 24. Data were analysed using paired and independent t-tests and Chi-square tests.

Results: Infliximab patients displayed a greater baseline mean PASI score (34.51) than Dexamethasone patients (28.51) with a comparable sample size, suggesting the severity, improving the interpretation of symptom improvement statistics. The T-test comparison showed statistically significant differences in PASI scores (p=0.035) and symptom improvement (p=0.021) in favour of Infliximab, while satisfaction scores and treatment duration had no statistically significant difference.

Conclusion: The Infliximab showed significantly better symptom improvement and slightly higher patient satisfaction, although the latter was not statistically significant. Both treatment groups had similar durations of therapy, ensuring a fair comparison. The enhanced effectiveness of Infliximab, particularly in improving clinical symptoms, positioning it as a potentially more beneficial option in treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.