Psoriasis: more than a skin disease ?

            A recent study implicates Psoriasis with a 70 % increased likelihood  of

developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) which is the most

common  form of chronic liver disease in Western countries.
         
           In addition,Psoriasis patients with NAFLD  were also 60 %

more likely to have the severe form of NAFLD.

           The most distinguishing feature of NAFLD is the accumulation of

triglycerides(a  type of lipid or fat) in the liver cells called hepatocytes.

           Risk factors for NAFLD besides Psoriasis include diabetes,hypertension,

obesity,a sedentary lifestyle,smoking and a poor diet.

          Besides advising my patients with Psoriasis about the increased

cardiovascular risks (see my earlier post on "the heartbreak of Psoriasis"),

I shall now inform them of the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease risk and

again recommend regular checkups with their healthcare practitioner.