Can skin inflammation impact the heart?

We’ve known from previous research that there’s a link between skin inflammation and cardiovascular disease. But studies are sparse.

• A new study aimed to understand the impact of psoriasis on heart structure, function, and health.¹
• Researchers compared two groups: 1K+ with psoriasis and 1K+ without any inflammatory skin disease, matched by age and sex.
• Everyone underwent a clinical evaluation and an ultrasound of the heart to look at how well the heart muscle was working and how it was built.

They found that people with psoriasis—including those whose skin disease was well-managed—showed signs of a weaker-pumping heart (myocardial dysfunction) at nearly three times the rate of people without the condition.

• The link persisted after adjusting for other risk factors, like blood pressure and higher body weight. This suggests psoriasis is contributing something on its own.
• The rate of heart muscle trouble was similar whether someone's psoriasis was mild or severe. Having a milder case didn't appear to be protective.

This is emerging science—i.e.: compelling, but early. However, the robust population based evidence and clinical significance of the study means it certainly warrants further investigation.

+Nothing is skin deep

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