P16 Journey of psoriasis registry in Nigeria (prince study)

Abstract The prevalence of Psoriasis in African populations ranges from 0.05 to 1%, compared with 2–3% reported in Caucasian populations.1,2 Some postulate that the low prevalence in African studies may be due to missed or misdiagnoses as tinea corporis or non-specific dermatitis by non-dermatologists due to a scarcity of dermatologists and dermatopathologists.1,2 Information on psoriasis in Nigerians is needed, being the most populous dark-skinned nation in the world, as clinical and genetic variations could influence therapeutic approaches to its management. This project was to develop a psoriasis registry, the first in Nigeria, that will document psoriasis patients’ clinical, epidemiological and biochemical characteristics. Our Roadmap included developing the Psoriasis Registry team, writing the proposal, and seeking ethics clearance from the National Human Research and Ethics Committee of Nigeria and the committees at the participating centres. Investigators were trained on diagnosis, assessment, and instruments, including PASI, DLQI, and body surface area, as well as datasheets and protocols and data entry into the website https://psoriasis.org.ng. Bimonthly meetings are held to assess the challenges and progress. This collaborative effort comprised the principal investigator (PI), three co-PIs, and over 60 co-investigators from Dermatology clinics across Nigeria’s six geopolitical regions. The proposal and protocols have received approval from the National Human Research and Ethics Committee of Nigeria (NHREC/01/01/2007 – 08/11/202333). Data entry started in January, and we are about 6 months into the project. Preliminary results show about equal frequencies of psoriasis in both males and females. Chronic plaque psoriasis is the most common clinical type, and all the clinical types have been documented. This study, with the cohort developed, will form the foundation for further studies of psoriasis in Nigeria, particularly genetic studies. It will potentially improve the understanding and management of psoriasis across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and the skin of colour population.