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Streptococcal tonsillitis and its association with psoriasis: a review
R J England1, D R Strachan, L C Knight
1Department of Otolaryngology, St James University Hospital, Leeds, UK.
Clinical Otolaryngology and Allied Sciences
|February 18, 1998
Summary
Group A Streptococcus infections can trigger psoriasis. This review explores the link between these upper respiratory infections and guttate or chronic plaque psoriasis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Lancefield group A streptococcal infections are common upper respiratory tract pathogens.
- These infections are increasingly recognized as potential triggers for various dermatological conditions.
- Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, has known associations with infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the historical context of the relationship between streptococcal infections and psoriasis.
- To review recent research investigating this connection.
- To present the current understanding of how these two phenomena are linked.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical data.
- Analysis of recent scientific research and clinical observations.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on the pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Group A streptococcal infections are frequently observed preceding the onset of guttate psoriasis.
- These infections can also trigger reactivation of chronic plaque psoriasis.
- The association is well-recognized, particularly within the dermatology community.
Conclusions:
- A significant link exists between upper respiratory tract infections caused by Group A Streptococcus and the development or exacerbation of psoriasis.
- Further research is ongoing to fully elucidate the immunological mechanisms involved.
- Understanding this connection is crucial for both dermatologists and otolaryngologists.