Psoriasis and cardiovascular comorbidities with emphasis in Asia

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Cardiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Psoriasis, traditionally viewed as a skin condition, is increasingly linked to systemic comorbidities.
• Cardiovascular disease is a significant concern in psoriasis patients, impacting mortality and treatment strategies.
• Shared inflammatory pathways, including Th1 and Th17 responses, and metabolic factors like adiposity and metabolic syndrome, may underlie both psoriasis and atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on cardiovascular risks associated with psoriasis.
• To examine the impact of psoriasis treatments, including biologics, on cardiovascular comorbidities.
• To present recent findings, including those from Taiwan, addressing the cardiovascular risks in psoriasis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent publications on psoriasis and cardiovascular comorbidities.
• Analysis of studies investigating the effects of psoriasis treatments on cardiovascular health.
• Inclusion of recent research data from Taiwan.

Main Results:

• Growing evidence confirms a significant link between psoriasis and cardiovascular comorbidities.
• Chronic inflammation and metabolic syndrome are implicated as common pathogenic mechanisms.
• Psoriasis treatments, particularly biologics, are being investigated for their cardiovascular effects.

Conclusions:

• Psoriasis is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, extending beyond its dermatological manifestations.
• Understanding shared inflammatory and metabolic pathways is crucial for managing comorbidities.
• Further research, including Asian-specific data, is needed to fully elucidate and manage cardiovascular risks in psoriasis patients.