A new study reveals that even when psoriasis patients use medication that clears their skin, inflammation can persist throughout the body. This hidden inflammation is linked to higher risks of other health problems.
Researchers analyzed data from about 200 psoriasis patients in the United States, Spain, and Sweden. These patients had mild or no symptoms after one year of biologic treatment. Despite this, 36 percent still showed residual inflammation. This type of inflammation can contribute to many health issues, according to the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
Patients with residual inflammation were more likely to have obesity, extra belly fat, and a liver condition called metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This disease results from fat buildup in the liver caused by abnormal metabolism.
Dr. Faranak Kamangar, a dermatologist at the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, explains that people often assume their problems are solved once their visible skin clears. However, the study found that invisible inflammation can continue in the bloodstream, even if the skin looks healthy.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes itchy, scaly patches on the skin. It commonly appears on knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. Besides skin symptoms, psoriasis increases the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. While biologic drugs reduce inflammation and clear the skin, they do not completely eliminate inflammation inside the body.
Dr. Danilo Del Campo from the Chicago Skin Clinic notes that some patients maintain good skin control but still face metabolic problems caused by ongoing inflammation. He stresses that psoriasis affects the entire body, not just the skin.
Though the study only followed patients for one year and had a small sample size, the results highlight the need for a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and heavy drinking are important steps.
Dr. Kamangar recommends a Mediterranean diet with olive oil, fatty fish, vegetables, and nuts to reduce inflammation. Managing stress through meditation, yoga, or other methods can also help.
Both doctors agree that patients should regularly see their primary care provider to monitor overall health. Early detection and treatment of related conditions can improve long-term outcomes. In some cases, adjusting biologic treatments or adding therapies may be necessary if inflammation persists.
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