Psoriasis and cardiovascular disorders

Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and related comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, and obesity. The precise mechanistic links underlying the association between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease remain unknown, however, multiple pathologic mechanisms have been proposed. Shared inflammatory pathways between psoriasis and atherosclerosis are likely involved. Other possible mechanisms include endothelial dysfunction, cytokine dysregulation, platelet upregulation, and dyslipidemia. Additional studies are needed to more clearly define the association between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease. Current, but limited, data suggests that psoriasis treatments targeting inflammation may be able to reduce the cardiovascular risks in this patient population. As new therapies become available, long-term prospective studies will be required to determine their potential effects on cardiovascular risk. This review summarizes the current literature on proposed pathogenic links between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease, the epidemiology of psoriasis and associated cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases, and the impact of anti-psoriatic treatments on cardiovascular risk profile. In addition, we provide a brief discussion of risk factor management strategies in patients with psoriasis.