Association of high levels of C-reactive protein with skin disorders in women having poor obstetric history

Abstract

Aims. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the association of high levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) with skin disorders in women having poor obstetric history. Methodology. The patients (n=185) were evaluated for the presence of systemic disorders, as well as skin problems and inflammation. Clinical/demographic features and CRP levels were obtained from the electronic database. Skin disorders were grouped as acne/rosacea/other acneiform disorders, fungal disease, pruritus/xerosis, psoriasis vulgaris, acrochordons/other benign hypertrophic skin conditions, urticaria/dermatitis, and viral diseases. Results. High levels of CRP were found in 37.5% and 16.2% of the patients with (n=80) and without (n=105) skin disorders, respectively (p=0.002). CRP levels above the upper limit were more frequently detected in pruritus/xerosis (p=0.005) and acrochordons (p=0.015). Conclusions. Skin disorders should be further evaluated for the existence of inflammation which might be a risk factor for poor gestational outcomes. Preconceptional counseling is beneficial for women with poor obstetric history and skin disorders.