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Psoriasis and pregnancy: hormone and immune system interaction
A S Boyd1, L F Morris, C M Phillips
1Department of Dermatology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-5227, USA.
International Journal of Dermatology
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Pregnancy often improves psoriasis for women, with most experiencing clearer skin. However, a postpartum flare is common, affecting nearly 88% of patients within four months of delivery.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Psoriasis (PsO) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition influenced by hormonal fluctuations.
- Changes in psoriasis severity are frequently observed during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical course of psoriasis during pregnancy and postpartum in a cohort of women.
- To explore potential hormonal and immunological mechanisms underlying these changes.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire and interview-based study of 100 women with psoriasis who experienced pregnancy.
- Literature review to identify factors contributing to psoriasis alterations during pregnancy.
Main Results:
- 76.7% of women reported changes in their psoriasis during pregnancy, with 63.3% experiencing improvement.
- 87.7% of patients experienced a postpartum flare, predominantly within 4 months after delivery.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy is typically associated with improvement in psoriasis for the majority of affected women.
- Hormonal shifts, specifically involving estrogens and progesterone, during pregnancy may induce altered immune surveillance, impacting psoriasis activity.