Association of Nail Psoriasis with Metabolic Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study

Metabolic syndrome is a forerunner for adverse cardiovascular events. Its association with nail psoriasis has not been much explored. We conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate metabolic syndrome in patients with nail psoriasis as compared to psoriasis patients without nail involvement and healthy controls. Thirty each adult participants with nail psoriasis (group-I), psoriasis without nail involvement (group-II) and healthy controls (group-III) were recruited. All participants were assessed for metabolic syndrome as per National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Plan-III (NCEP-ATP-III) criteria. Disease severity assessment and serological assessment of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) level was done. Higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome was found in group-I compared to group-III (33.33 vs. 20%, p = 0.420) with equal prevalence in group-I and group-II. Significantly higher prevalence of hypertension was seen in group-I and group-II (p = 0.036) as compared to group-III. Mean serum hsCRP was significantly higher for group-I as compared to group-II (p = 0.027) and group-III (p = 0.001). Weak positive correlation was seen between hsCRP levels and PASI and NAPSI scores. Frequency of metabolic syndrome is similar in nail psoriasis patients and psoriasis patients without nail involvement. However, higher hsCRP levels with nail psoriasis may reflect increased risk of cardiovascular comorbidities. A baseline screening with correction of modifiable risk factors should be aimed at in patients with nail psoriasis.