Psoriasis and its comorbidities

Abstract

Objective To study the relation between psoriasis and its associated comorbidities i.e. obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, thyroid abnormalities. Methods This was a case-control study, including 150 patients and 50 age- and gender-matched controls visiting dermatology department. Detailed history was taken and clinical examination was done on enrolled patients according to the clinical proforma. Investigations like complete blood picture, thyroid profile, homocysteine levels, lipid profile and fasting blood sugar levels were done. Results Patients' mean age was 45.56±17.600 years in cases group whereas in control group was 46.060±19.659 years, P =0.868. The predominant clinical presentation was of plaque psoriasis.  We found an increased prevalence of waist circumference, BMI, hypertension (systolic and diastolic), serum homocysteine and smoking. There was no statistically significant difference in HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, thyroid stimulating hormone, serum vitamin B12 and alcohol intake, among cases and control group. Conclusion Psoriasis is associated with numerous comorbidities that have a major impact on patients. In our study, we found significant association with obesity, hypertension, serum homocysteine and increased prevalence of smoking in patients with psoriasis. There are limited number of studies and data in Indian population for co-morbidities in psoriasis and much more studies and research are required to study such associations in Indian population.