PSORIASIS AND ENDOTHELINS

Background: Psoriasis is characterized by an abnormal proliferation an d increased turnover of keratinocytes, the presence of acute and chron ic inflammatory cells and microangiopathic changes. Endothelins are a family of peptides which have been investigated especially for their e ffects on the cardiovascular system. Recent studies have demonstrated their involvement also in human skin. Aim of the study: We evaluated t he Endothelin-l and 2 plasma levels in psoriatic patients, as endothel in-l can be produced in vitro by keratinocytes and can stimulate the p roliferation of fibroblasts as well as modify the skin microcirculatio n dynamics. Patients and methods: We studied 30 patients: 10 affected with psoriasis (PASI from 5 to 10), 10 affected with cardiovascular di seases and 10 healthy controls. The Endothelin-l and 2 plasma levels w ere evaluated by radio-immunoassay procedure. Results: A significant i ncrease in Endothelin-l and 2 plasma levels was observed in the psoria tic patients, in comparison with the controls. Conclusions: Our data s eem to suggest a possible relationship between psoriasis and increased plasma level of endothelin-l acid 2, though the possible role played in the pathogenesis of psoriasis needs further studies.