Severity of periodontitis and salivary interleukin-1β are associated with psoriasis involvement.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Both psoriasis and periodontal diseases are characterized by an exaggerated immune response to the microbiota residing on epithelial surfaces. This study aimed to explore the associations between the severity of psoriasis and periodontal destruction in patients with psoriasis.

METHODS

Thirty-three patients diagnosed with psoriasis were referred from the dermatology clinic of National Taiwan University Hospital. Full-mouth periodontal examination was performed and saliva was collected after patients signed informed consent forms. The Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) as well as clinical periodontal parameters including probing depth (PD), plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were evaluated. Salivary cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-12, IL-17, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were tested with the Luminex Bio-Plex system. Anti-inflammatory medication, tobacco use, and underlying comorbidities were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

Baseline PASI was significantly associated with PI. PASI at follow-up was positively correlated with CAL ≥ 4 mm (%) and saliva IL-1β levels. Psoriasis patients who used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or topical steroids had significantly lower GI, PD ≥ 4 mm (%), and saliva IL-1β and TNF-α levels. Moreover, a history of tobacco use was associated with higher PD ≥ 4 mm (%).

CONCLUSION

PI, CAL, and salivary IL-1β were associated with PASI. Periodontal severity was associated with psoriasis involvement. Periodontal inflammation in psoriasis may be modified by anti-inflammatory medication and tobacco use. Additional large-scale longitudinal and mechanistic studies are needed.