Psoriasis is frequently associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. The carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a surrogate marker of atherosclerotic vascular disease. Every 0.1 mm increase in the CIMT increases the risk of myocardial infarction by 10% to 15% and stroke by 13% to 18%. The rise in the CIMT is also an independent predictor of myocardial infarction and stroke.

Nguyen et al, in their recent study, investigated the correlation of CIMT in patients with psoriasis. The study involved 70 patients with psoriasis and 35 healthy subjects. Blood lipid profiles were measured in both groups. Linear Doppler scanning was performed to evaluate the CIMT of the common, internal, and external carotid arteries and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques.

The study revealed that the mean CIMT value in psoriasis patients was significantly higher than in controls (p = 0.036). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a significant correlation between the CIMT and age (p = 0.043) and CIMT and the psoriasis area and severity index (p < 0.0001). Moreover, the mean number of atherosclerotic plaques in psoriasis patients was significantly higher than in controls (p = 0.035).

The findings demonstrated that ultrasound, a simple, noninvasive method for measuring CIMT and plaque deposition due to atherosclerosis, will aid in screening people at high-risk for cardiovascular events and detecting atherosclerosis before it has reached the clinical stage. Elderly patients with severe psoriasis should have a thorough cardiovascular examination, paying particular attention to the CIMT and atherosclerotic plaques.

Source: Nguyen HT, Doan Vo PT, Uyen Pham NT, et al. Carotid intima-media thickness in patients with psoriasis. Open Dermatol J. 2021;15:45-51.