Psoriasis: Beyond the Skin

Abstract

Previously considered as just a skin condition, psoriasis has come to be regarded as a complex, systemic inflammatory disorder that affects multiple other systems. The association of psoriasis with cardiovascular disease and the increased prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in psoriasis patients is increasingly recognised. Psoriasis is also associated with sleep apnoea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease, and liver disease. Increased awareness by both patients and physicians of these associations is vital to maximise optimal health outcomes in psoriasis patients. Screening for associated comorbidities and implementation of appropriate interventions is necessary. Furthermore, there is a considerably increased prevalence of depression and anxiety in psoriasis patients that is often not detected by physicians. Patients should be opportunistically assessed and treated, or referred appropriately, for psychological and mental health issues. Further studies are required to expand our knowledge of the systemic manifestations of psoriatic disease, and to allow us to further improve the health outcomes of psoriasis patients.