Lung Psoriasis: Recognizing Symptoms and Potential Complications
In a study that sheds light on the intricate connections between the skin and lungs, researchers have found that psoriasis, an autoimmune condition affecting millions worldwide, may increase the risk of developing various lung diseases.
## Psoriasis and Lung Diseases: A Closer Look
### Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
The chronic systemic inflammation in psoriasis can extend to the airways, contributing to airway inflammation and obstruction, which are hallmarks of COPD. The same immune dysregulation and inflammatory mediators (e.g., cytokines like IL-17 and TNF-α) that cause skin symptoms may also trigger or exacerbate lung inflammation. Studies have shown a higher incidence of COPD in individuals with psoriasis, even after accounting for confounding factors such as smoking.
### Pulmonary Sarcoidosis
Although direct evidence linking psoriasis to pulmonary sarcoidosis is less robust, both conditions involve a Th1/Th17-driven immune response and may share genetic or environmental triggers. Sarcoidosis is characterized by granuloma formation in the lungs, which involves immune cell infiltration and chronic inflammation—mechanisms also active in psoriasis, though the overlap is less clear.
### Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
The systemic inflammation in psoriasis can damage lung tissue over time, leading to fibrosis and scarring, which are characteristic of ILD and other progressive fibrosing lung disorders. Patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a related condition, have an even higher risk of ILD than those with psoriasis alone—more than 1.5 times greater—underscoring the role of inflammatory processes in lung disease development.
## Risk Factors and Prevention
Exposure to irritants such as dust, asbestos, animal droppings, chemicals, radiation, and smoke can increase a person's risk of developing lung disease. Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke will decrease a person's risk of lung problems and may also improve psoriasis symptoms.
## Further Research and Implications
A 2018 Danish study observed a slight decrease in lung function in people with psoriasis compared to non-psoriasis individuals. Research has linked psoriasis with the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and more recently, a 2024 study found that 10% of people with psoriasis also had interstitial lung disease (ILD), and only 3 out of 12 of those people had no history of smoking.
Genetics can play a role in the development of lung disease, particularly if a family member has a particular lung disease. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes widespread inflammation, putting a person at risk of many complications, including lung disease, heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
On lighter skin tones, psoriasis symptoms are patches of red, inflamed skin and silvery-white scaly rashes. On darker skin tones, it may be more pink, purple, or dark brown with grayish scaly rashes.
In conclusion, understanding the links between psoriasis and lung diseases is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Further research is needed to confirm the mechanisms behind these connections and to develop targeted therapies for those at high risk. If you suspect you may have symptoms of a lung disease, consult your doctor immediately.
- The study on the connections between the skin and lungs revealed that psoriasis, a common autoimmune condition, may increase the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for individuals with psoriasis.
- Additionally, the same study suggested a potential higher incidence of pulmonary sarcoidosis in people with psoriasis, although the evidence is less conclusive due to shared Th1/Th17-driven immune responses and possible genetic or environmental triggers.
- Furthermore, the researchers discovered that the systemic inflammation in psoriasis can damage lung tissue over time, potentially leading to interstitial lung disease (ILD), especially in those with psoriatic arthritis.
- To reduce the risk of developing lung diseases, avoiding exposure to irritants such as dust, asbestos, smoke, and quitting smoking can be beneficial for both lung health and psoriasis symptoms.
- In a 2018 Danish study, a slight decrease in lung function was observed in people with psoriasis compared to non-psoriasis individuals, while a 2024 study found that 10% of people with psoriasis had interstitial lung disease (ILD), suggesting a relationship between the two.
- Genetics can play a role in both psoriasis and lung disease development, emphasizing the importance of understanding these links for early detection and effective treatment in health-and-wellness, medical-conditions, chronic-diseases, skin-care, and person-to-person relationships among switchers and cough seekers.
