Psoriasis and Obesity: A Review of the Current Literature

Abstract

Obesity is currently considered a low-grade chronic inflammatory condition that has well-documented associations with heart disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome. In addition to these conditions, there is growing evidence that the inflammatory cytokines produced in obesity may play contributory roles in other inflammatory phenomena. Notably, numerous studies over the last several decades have shed light on the genetic, mechanistic, and epidemiologic links between obesity and psoriasis, with implications for the treatment of these patients. This article reviews the current literature regarding the relationship of obesity and psoriasis, with exploration of their common mechanistic etiology and the necessary considerations in the management, both pharmacological and otherwise, of this patient population.