Lipoprotein (a) levels are elevated in psoriasis: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Dermatology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
• Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] levels are elevated in individuals with psoriasis.
• To quantify the difference in Lp(a) levels between psoriasis patients and healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Cochrane Library databases.
• A meta-analysis was performed on data from 16 studies involving 1401 psoriasis patients and 1320 healthy controls.
• Sensitivity analyses were performed based on geographical origin.

Main Results:

• Psoriasis patients had significantly higher Lp(a) levels compared to healthy controls (Mean Difference: 6.72 mg/dL).
• Elevated Lp(a) levels were observed in both European (MD: 15.86 mg/dL) and Asian (MD: 4.95 mg/dL) sub-populations.
• The findings were statistically significant (P < 0.00001) with considerable heterogeneity (I² = 71%).

Conclusions:

• Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] levels are significantly elevated in patients with psoriasis.
• This elevation in Lp(a) contributes to the increased ASCVD risk observed in psoriasis patients.
• The findings underscore the importance of monitoring cardiovascular risk in psoriasis management.