Serum level of celiac disease-associated antigliadin antibodies in psoriatic patients

Abstract

Background Antigliadin antibodies (AGA) are markers of celiac disease (CD). Elevated levels of these antibodies are also seen in many other autoimmune, neurological, hematological, collagen vascular, and cutaneous disorders, even in the absence of clinically overt gastrointestinal disease. The possible relationship between psoriasis and CD has been attributed to the common pathogenic mechanisms of the two diseases. Aim of work The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of serum level of immunoglobulin A [(IgA); AGA] in psoriatic patients and its correlation with disease severity. Patients and methods This study included 60 patients with psoriasis in whom severity was assessed with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score, in addition to 30 healthy individuals who served as controls. Blood samples were taken from all patients and controls for detection of serum IgA (AGA) level by means of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results A highly significant increase was found in the mean serum level of IgA (AGA) in psoriatic patients compared with controls. The serum level of IgA (AGA) was significantly correlated with the severity of psoriasis and with a history for food intolerance. Conclusion A high serum IgA (AGA) positivity rate was detected in severe psoriatic patients, and therefore these patients are at risk for latent and/or overt CD. Serological evaluation for serum level of IgA (AGA) should be considered in patients with severe psoriasis and a gluten-free diet must be prescribed.