Psoriasis occurs when skin cells grow abnormally fast, causing the formation of itchy red patches covered with silver/white skin cells. The inflammatory nature of psoriasis places individuals at a heightened risk of heart attack and other serious conditions. Recent research was suggestive that certain psoriasis treatments may lower one’s risk of heart attack. Is there any validity to this promising suggestion? Previous research has shown a correlation between extent and severity of psoriasis and the greater likelihood of getting heart disease.
Thousands of Patients Studied, from Three Different Medication Groups
To test this idea, 8,845 individuals with psoriasis condition were studied between the years of 2004 and 2010. These people were in one of three different medication groups: tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, oral medications or phototherapy, or topical medications. At the end of the study, patients that received treatment in the form of TNF inhibitors, phototherapy or oral medications had a lower incidence of heart attack than those treated with topical medications. Based on these results, physicians should consider the aforementioned three treatment methods for psoriasis patients with more severe or extensive disease.
Do You Have Psoriasis? Contact Us Today!
Psoriasis is a source of great distress to those affected. If you are suffering from psoriasis, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our board-certified dermatologists are experts at treating psoriasis and other skin conditions. we have the latest treatment modalities from phototherapy with narrow-band UVB, Excimer laser, TNF inhibitors, other oral medications, and topical medications. Our nine conveniently located offices welcome patients from Queens, Long Island (Roslyn/Albertson, West Islip, Commack, East Setauket), New York City, Bergen County, NJ, Union County, NJ, and all surrounding areas.