Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Thyroid Autoimmunity.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Rheumatology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Psoriasis (PsO) is a chronic autoimmune skin disease linked to other autoimmune conditions.
• Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) affects about 30% of PsO patients.
• Associations between PsO/PsA and autoimmune thyroid disorders (AITDs) are debated, with conflicting study results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between PsO, PsA, and AITDs.
• To explore the immunopathogenetic basis for these associations.
• To recommend screening and monitoring protocols for at-risk patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies on PsO, PsA, and AITD associations.
• Analysis of immune markers, including serum CXCL10.
• Evaluation of thyroid autoimmunity markers (AbTPO, hypoechoic thyroid) and thyroid function.

Main Results:

• Most studies show an association between PsO/PsA and AITD in adults, but not in juvenile forms.
• PsA patients, especially women, exhibit higher prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity and subclinical hypothyroidism.
• A Th1 immune predominance, indicated by high CXCL10, is observed in early PsO/PsA and autoimmune thyroiditis.

Conclusions:

• A Th1 immune predominance may underlie the association between PsO/PsA and AITDs.
• Screening for thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity is crucial in PsA patients, particularly women.
• Regular thyroid function follow-up and treatment are advised for high-risk PsA women.