Heart Health
Psoriasis again linked to heart disease
On the surface, the vexing skin disease known as psoriasis (sore-EYE-uh-sis) seems to have nothing in common with heart disease. Yet research from around the globe suggests the two conditions are somehow linked.
European Heart JournalHow can a skin condition be connected to heart disease? Inflammation is probably the link. Psoriasis occurs when T cells, a type of white blood cell that normally protects the body against foreign substances, attach to skin cells. This joining activates the T cells and kicks off inflammation in the skin and throughout the body. Inflammation is also involved in starting and promoting heart disease.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
