The Psoriasis Plot Thickens [editorial]

Over the last several years dermatologists have become increasingly aware of a growing body of data suggesting that psoriasis is associated with systemic comorbidities including metabolic syndrome and increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Metabolic syndrome generally is defined by the presence of or treatment of at least 3 of the following 5 criteria: hypertension, insulin resistance, decreased high-density lipoprotein, hypertriglyceridemia, and central obesity. We have witnessed a transformation in the way we approach psoriasis. In the past, psoriasis was mainly viewed as a cutaneous concern; however, it is now viewed and treated as a systemic inflammatory condition, which deserves a multidisciplinary approach.