Cholesterol and lipoprotein (a) levels in psoriasis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Cardiovascular Science
• Clinical Biochemistry

Background:

• Psoriasis is prevalent in Western populations but uncommon in those with low atherosclerosis rates.
• Psoriasis patients attending a lipid clinic showed higher prevalence than the general population.
• Lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) is elevated in coronary heart disease and protein-losing nephropathies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential association between psoriasis and lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) levels.
• To investigate the relationship between psoriasis and lipid profiles.
• To determine if increased epidermal protein turnover in psoriasis correlates with elevated Lp(a).

Main Methods:

• Patient cohort analysis within a lipid clinic setting.
• Measurement of lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) concentrations.
• Assessment of lipid profiles, including cholesterol levels.

Main Results:

• No significant association was identified between Lp(a) concentrations and psoriasis.
• Mean cholesterol levels were not elevated in the study group, despite some individuals exceeding 7.5 mmol L-1.
• The hypothesis of elevated Lp(a) in psoriasis due to protein loss was not supported by the findings.

Conclusions:

• This study found no correlation between lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) and psoriasis.
• Lipid profiles did not show significant elevation in patients with psoriasis.
• Further research may be needed to understand the relationship between psoriasis and cardiovascular risk factors.