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Updated: May 1, 2026
11:39
The Goeckerman Regimen for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
Published on: July 11, 2013
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'Short-term treatment with methotrexate does not affect microvascular endothelial function in patients with
M Gyldenløve1, P Jensen, M B Løvendorf
1Department of Dermato-Allergology, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark.
Summary
Short-term methotrexate treatment did not improve microvascular endothelial function (MEF) in psoriasis patients. This study suggests that anti-inflammatory therapy may not directly impact early atherosclerosis markers in psoriasis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cardiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Psoriasis is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to systemic inflammation.
- Systemic anti-inflammatory treatments may potentially mitigate CVD risk in psoriasis patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of short-term methotrexate treatment on microvascular endothelial function (MEF) in psoriasis patients.
- MEF serves as an early indicator of atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of a hospital cohort of 32 psoriasis patients.
- MEF measured using Endo-PAT2000© at baseline and after 8-10 weeks of methotrexate.
- Assessed psoriasis severity (PASI, DLQI), BMI, waist-hip ratio, blood pressure, and blood markers (lipid profile, HbA1, hs-CRP).
Main Results:
- Methotrexate significantly reduced psoriasis severity (PASI) and improved quality of life (DLQI).
- No significant changes were observed in microvascular endothelial function (reactive hyperemia index, augmentation index).
- No significant alterations in BMI, waist-hip ratio, blood pressure, or blood lipid profiles were noted.
Conclusions:
- Short-term methotrexate treatment did not influence microvascular endothelial function in patients with psoriasis.
- Further research is needed to explore the relationship between anti-inflammatory treatments and cardiovascular risk in psoriasis.
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