Identifying and Managing Complications and Comorbidities in Patients With Psoriasis

Abstract

The common comorbidities of cutaneous psoriasis include psoriatic arthritis (PsA), Crohn's disease, uveitis, and depression. In addition, cardiovascular disease risk factors (including metabolic syndrome) are seen more frequently among patients with psoriasis, and strong epidemiologic evidence has demonstrated that psoriasis is independently associated with myocardial infarction. Because these comorbid conditions and other medical complications adversely affect morbidity and mortality in patients with psoriasis, dermatologists can play an important role in promptly identifying and, when necessary, referring patients for further workup and treatment when signs or symptoms of these comorbidities or complications are observed. Semin Cutan Med Surg 34(supp2):S30-S33 © 2015 published by Frontline Medical Communications.

Keywords: Biologic agents; cardiovascular disease risk factors; chronic kidney disease; immune-mediated inflammatory diseases; psoriasis; psoriatic arthritis; viral hepatitis.