Psoriasis and Metabolic Syndrome

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by the immune system activation in which the genetic and environmental factors are involved. Metabolic syndrome represents the combination of insulin resistance, obesity, hypertension and dyslipidemia. In recent years, the association between metabolic syndrome and psoriasis has been a focus of interest. Several mechanisms have been accused in the etiologic link between these two disorders. It is crucial for the dermatologist to recognize the relation between psoriasis and metabolic disease as this association may have important clinical implications in the management of psoriasis. Here, we review the most recent data linking psoriasis to metabolic syndrome and discuss the potential underling mechanisms of this association by the evidence form current literature.