Atherogenic Index and Protein Fractions in Psoriasis

Context: Psoriasis is a common non-contagious chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by patchy inflammatory lesion covered with silvery white scales. Its etiology is still unknown while genetic, metabolic and immunological mechanisms have been recommended as its cause. An increased ratio of triglycerides to HDL-cholesterol (TG/HDL-c) is considered a risk for the development of coronary heart disease is reported by several studies. Excessive shedding of scales from the skin in the course of disease causes loss of proteins. Objectives: To estimate and compare atherogenic index in psoriatic patients and controls and to analyze the electrophoretic pattern of serum protein fractions in psoriatic patients and controls. Materials and methods: 50 patients with psoriasis of various degrees of severity and 50 age and gender matched non psoriatic subjects were included in the study. Serum lipid profile and serum total proteins and protein fractions was determined. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. Results: Atherogenic index showed statistically significant increase in psoriatic patients compared to normal individuals (p < 0.05). The mean serum total proteins showed statistically significant decrease due to decrease in albumin.However, the protein fractions showed statistically significant increase due to increase in α2 , β and γ globulins in psoriatic patients compared to normal individuals (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Meticulous follow up of dyslipidemia and protein levels with adequate protein supplementation throughout the course of the disease can go a long way in improving patient’s nutritional status and also can prevent the complications associated with hyperlipidemia and hypoproteinemia.