Exploring the role of prolactin in psoriasis

Abstract

Prolactin (PRL) is well recognised for its role(s) in mammary gland development and function. Moreover, its role in skin biology, including the potent regulation of human hair growth, is becoming clearer. Less widely appreciated, however, is the potential role of PRL in the pathobiology of psoriasis. While the relationship between PRL and psoriasis remains enigmatic, several recent publications on the PRL-psoriasis connection have demonstrated a reawakening of interest in this conundrum. We take the occasion of these reports to underscore the importance of dissecting the role(s) of PRL in the aetiopathology of psoriasis, not least since this may help to identify novel hormonal treatment strategies in its management.