Burden of impaired sleep and its improvement through topical treatment in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis

Summary Introduction Patients with chronic inflammatory skin diseases often suffer from sleep disturbances. However, objective data on sleep architecture, especially to evaluate potential overall influences under therapy, are lacking. Patients and methods Pilot study on sleep quality changes including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis patients before and 2 weeks after intensive topical treatment. In addition to disease activity rating, patient‐rated outcomes for itch severity and sleep quality and polygraphy was performed before and after topical therapy. Results 14 psoriasis, eleven atopic dermatitis patients (10 female, 15 male) with a mean age of 49 years were included. Disease activity scores (EASI and PASI) were significantly reduced with topical therapy after 2 weeks (p < 0.001). Pruritus intensity (NRS) showed a significant influence on deep sleep, which resolved after therapy. Insomnia severity significantly decreased (r > 0.50, p < 0.05) and daytime sleepiness showed a significant reduction in 40% of patients. N3 (deep sleep) and REM sleep significantly improved, showing a strong effect (r > 0.50). The apnea‐hypopnea index decreased in one of four patients independent of the individual BMI. Conclusions Through polygraphy, we demonstrated impaired sleep patterns in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis patients with itch as a relevant factor and beyond that, rapid sleep improvement under 2 weeks of topical treatment.