Correlation between the components of the metabolic syndrome and psoriasis

Psoriasis (Ps) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting 2% of the world’s population. These people have a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MS) up to one-third of patients. According to current criteria, the diagnosis of MS is made on the basis of a diagnosis of obesity and two out of three: elevated blood pressure, abnormal glucose metabolism, or atherogenic dyslipidemia. The correlation between the MS and Ps is probably due to shared genetic factors; the expression of common genes leads to the development of both diseases. Moreover, in the course of Ps, there is systemic inflammation that prompts the development of components of the MS. The psoriatic lesions negatively affect the patient’s well-being leading to social withdrawal and diminishing tendency to exercise, directing to overweight and hypertension independently of the systemic inflammation. Current evidence suggests that the development of Ps is most influenced by obesity, but the risk of development is greatest when all elements of the MS are present. Appropriate prevention and lifestyle changes are important, as they significantly reduce the risk of developing MS and minimize the symptoms of Ps, while also reducing the cardiovascular risk which both diseases lead to its increment independently