Psoriasis and Cardiovascular Disease

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, has been linked to the metabolic syndrome and various manifestations of cardiovascular disease. Together, psoriasis and the metabolic syndrome constitute a proinflammatory state, and psoriasis shares many pathogenic features with the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Measures of early endothelial dysfunction and subclinical atherosclerosis, as well as corresponding serum biomarkers, may be useful tools to predict which patients are at greatest risk. Regular screening of patients with psoriasis for metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors is of utmost importance, and treatment goals should include management of modifiable risk factors and reduction in systemic inflammation.