It has been observed both informally and in a selection of few studies that the incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) and psoriasis might be associated, but the nature of this link is unclear. Certain data show that clustering among families of multiple autoimmune diseases might be related to genetic factors. However, if the family members of MS patients are at increased risk of psoriasis is not yet well established.

A systematic review and meta-analysis, according to recommended PRISMA guidelines, was conducted. Information from studies evaluating the proportion or effect size of psoriasis cases that were reported for families or relatives of MS cases compared to families or relatives of control cases without MS were obtained and meta-analyzed.

The results from a pooled unadjusted meta-analysis of five studies, which met the given criteria, found that the family members of MS patients were at increased risk of psoriasis.

The meta-analysis concluded that family members of MS could be at higher risk of developing psoriasis.

Source: Charlton O, Phan K, Smith SD, Parratt J. Psoriasis in family members of patients with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord. 2019;36:101421. doi:10.1016/j.msard.2019.101421