Most physicians prescribe antifungals for inverse psoriasis

Many dermatologists prescribe topical antifungals for the treatment of inverse psoriasis, according to a survey study presented at the AAD VMX virtual meeting.

The five-question survey was sent electronically to the Association of Professors of Dermatology listserv and asked physicians their habits regarding prescribing antifungals, including if they do so when they suspect Malassezia or Candida.

“Studies suggest Malasezia may play a greater role than Candida in exacerbations,” the study authors wrote.

Twenty-five percent of 91 respondents reported never prescribing antifungals for IP. Of those who did prescribe antifungals, approximately 97% suspected the presence of Candida and 28% never suspect Malassezia.

Most of those using topical antifungals (97%) used them in combination with other topical treatments, with 46% of them reporting doing so occasionally.

“Topical antifungals are utilized by a majority of APD respondents in the treatment of IP, typically in combination with other topical agents,” the authors wrote. “Additional research may be necessary to establish topical antifungals as first-line agents, alone or in combination, for inverse psoriasis treatment.”