Mean platelet volume in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis

Mean platelet volume (MPV), an indicator of platelet activation, is a newly emerging risk factor for atherothrombosis. There is evidence of platelet activation in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The association between psoriasis, PsA, and atherosclerosis is well documented, yet, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the differences of MPV values in patients with psoriasis, PsA, and healthy subjects and the correlation between MPV and the clinical disease activity. A total of 106 patients with psoriasis were included in this study. The study population grouped as 48 patients with PsA (group 1) and 58 patients without PsA (group 2) and 95 healthy controls (group 3). MPV was measured in psoriasis and PsA patients. MPV values were collected from standard complete blood count samples. Clinical features and PASI scores in group 1 and 2 were also recorded. MPV in patients with psoriasis 8.7 +/- 0.9 fL was significantly higher than that of control subjects 7.3 +/- 0.8 fL (p < 0.001). There was also statistical difference between MPV levels of patients with (9.5 +/- 0.8) and without (8.0 +/- 0.7) arthritis (p < 0.001). MPV levels were positively correlated with psoriasis area and severity index score (p = 0.000, r = +0.735). MPV levels showed positive correlation with disease duration (p = 0.01, r = 0.518). MPV levels are increased in patients with psoriasis and PsA. MPV may be a marker for the severity of psoriasis. This study may confirm previous observation indicating increased platelet activation in psoriasis. Increased platelet activity could contribute to increasing the atherosclerotic risk in patients with psoriasis and PsA.