The Relationship of Psoriasis and Melanocytic Nevi.

BACKGROUND

There is limited data about the relationship between psoriasis and melanocytic lesions and melanoma. Immunologic pathways which were implicated in psoriasis induce a reduction in the number of melanocytic nevi.

AIMS AND

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the number of melanocytic nevi in psoriatic patients compared with controls and its relationship with disease severity and type of treatment.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study in 100 psoriatic patients and 100 controls. Clinical data were recorded for all participants.

RESULTS

As compared with controls, patients had overall fewer nevi congenital nevi. Among psoriatic patients, biologic agents and disease severity did not correlate with the number of nevi.

CONCLUSIONS

Psoriatic patients have fewer nevi than controls. Frequency of nevi in psoriatic patients is not related to treatment and disease severity.