Assessment of Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Selected Echocardiographic Parameters in Male Patients with Psoriasis.

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction and coronary artery disease.

METHODS

This single-center observational study assessed cardiovascular risk factors in 77 adult male patients with psoriasis compared with a control group. All participants underwent echocardiography to evaluate left ventricular diastolic function.

RESULTS

Patients with psoriasis had a higher body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.062), elevated C-reactive protein levels (p < 0.001), and more frequent hypertension (p = 0.001). Past and current smoking was significantly more common in the psoriasis group (p < 0.05). Echocardiographic parameters were generally higher in psoriasis patients, particularly the left atrial volume index (LAVI) (median 23.72 vs. 19.5 mL/m2; p < 0.01) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (median 99.84 vs. 93.70 g/m2; p < 0.05). Subclinical cardiac damage occurred more frequently in psoriasis patients (OR = 3.37, 95% CI: 1.39-9.1), remaining significant after adjustment for hypertension, smoking, and BMI (OR = 2.77, 95% CI: 1.07-7.83). Logistic regression indicated that cardiac damage was associated with age, hypertension, and antihypertensive use. Psoriasis independently increased the risk of subclinical cardiac damage after adjustment for age and hypertension.

CONCLUSION

Patients with psoriasis should be screened early for cardiovascular disease and preventive strategies introduced to reduce long-term risk.