Psoriasis treatment training in dermatology residency: a Latin American survey of faculty and residents

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated psoriasis treatment teaching in dermatology residency programs across Latin America (LATAM).

Methods: A Spanish/Portuguese survey was distributed to directors of dermatology departments/training programs and their residents in several LATAM countries between November 29, 2022, and March 31, 2023.

Results: A total of 108 individuals responded (59 directors and 49 residents) from eight countries: Argentina (2.8%), Brazil (41.7%), Chile (25.0%), Colombia (7.4%), Guatemala (1.9%), Mexico (1.9%), Paraguay (4.6%), and Peru (14.8%). Most directors reported that residents received training in complex medical dermatology (89.8%), immunodermatology (66.1%), and phototherapy (78%). Most residents reported familiarity with national guidelines (81.6%) and adherence to local guidelines (85.7%). In Brazil, 91% of programs had at least seven faculty members, 97% required national specialization exams, and 91% treated more than 31 psoriasis patients per week, compared with 48%, 36%, and 67% in other LATAM countries, respectively. Additionally, 47% of centers in Brazil reported that at least 26% of psoriasis patients received biological therapy, compared with only 8% in other LATAM countries.

Conclusion: Dermatology residents in LATAM are trained in complex dermatology, immunodermatology, and phototherapy and national psoriasis guidelines. Variation exists in patient volume and biologics use. A focus on improving residents' psoriasis training throughout LATAM is needed.

Keywords: Latin America; Psoriasis; biologics; dermatology residency; immunodermatology; phototherapy; psoriatic arthritis; resident.