1. What is the decision or change (e.g., clinical topic, practice guideline, system design, delivery of care) you are facing or struggling with where a summary of the evidence would be helpful?

The decision involves evaluating the efficacy and safety of various prescription topical treatments for plaque psoriasis. This includes treatments such as topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, vitamin D analogues, tazarotene, moisturizers, salicylic acid, anthralin, coal tar, roflumilast, tapinarof, and combinations of biologic and nonbiologic agents. The aim is to update an existing clinical guideline to reflect recent advancements and new evidence on these treatments.

2. Why are you struggling with this issue?

The struggle arises from conflicting studies and uncertainties about the benefits and harms of these treatments. Additionally, there is variation in the practices of healthcare providers. The need to understand the comparative effectiveness of new treatments like roflumilast and tapinarof against traditional therapies is crucial for informed clinical decision-making.

3. What do you want to see changed? How will you know that your issue is improving or has been addressed?

The goal is to update clinical practice guidelines to standardize care and ensure consistency in treatment approaches. Improvements will be indicated by more effective management strategies for psoriasis, reflected in better patient outcomes such as reduced symptom severity and improved quality of life. This will be measured through clinician-reported and patient-reported outcomes, as well as the frequency of adverse events.

4. When do you need the evidence report?

Fri, 05/01/2026

5. What will you do with the evidence report?

The evidence report will be used to update the American Academy of Dermatology’s clinical practice guidelines. This update will help standardize treatment approaches, improve patient outcomes, and ensure that healthcare providers are informed by the most current and comprehensive evidence available. The report will also aid in program planning and potentially influence coverage decisions.

By systematically reviewing these topical therapies, the American Academy of Dermatology aims to enhance the care and treatment strategies for individuals living with psoriasis, ultimately improving their quality of life and health outcomes.

Supporting Documentation

Systematic Review Topic Nomination: Topical Therapy for Psoriasis (PDF, 238 KB)

Optional Information About You

What is your role or perspective? Professional Society

If you are you making a suggestion on behalf of an organization, please state the name of the organization American Academy of Dermatology

May we contact you if we have questions about your nomination? Yes