Beyond Skin and Joints: Psoriasis and the Metabolic Syndrome

Researchers identified the metabolic syndrome in 30% of psoriasis patients seen at tertiary skin centers.

Recent studies have linked psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis to health impairment beyond joints and skin. Compared with the general population, patients with psoriasis are more likely to smoke and to be overweight, and cardiovascular disease and mortality have been associated with psoriatic diseases. The metabolic syndrome is a significant predictor of cardiovascular risk.

To determine the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in patients with psoriasis, the authors evaluated 338 patients with psoriasis and 334 patients with other skin diseases. Although the article’s title suggests that the study was hospital-based, it was conducted in outpatient clinics at three Italian university hospitals. Patients were at least 18, had had psoriasis for …

Reviewing Author

Jeffrey P. Callen, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board XOMA; Eli Lilly; Celgene

Equity Various trust accounts

Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societies Association of Professors of Dermatology (President-Elect)