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Understanding the link between gut health and psoriasis opens new avenues for treatment and highlights the need for comprehensive care approaches that encompass both dermatological and gastrointestinal health
The link between psoriasis and Crohn’s disease highlights the importance of a holistic approach to treatment that considers both skin and gut health
Psoriasis and Crohn’s disease are both chronic, inflammatory conditions that have been increasingly linked through research. Understanding the connection between gut health and psoriasis is essential for developing comprehensive treatment plans that address both the dermatological and gastrointestinal aspects of these conditions.
Psoriasis is a skin condition that evolves as an autoimmune disease. The skin cells accumulate at an uncontrollable rate which results in the formation of scales that can be found on top of the skin. These scales are typically red in Color and itchy in nature, while also with dry patches over the skin. With respect to psoriasis, these symptoms automatically result in an aggravated inflammatory conditions which correlates to other conditions such as psoriatic arthritis or even inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that incorporated Crohn’s disease as well.
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation that can span from mouth to anus. Symptoms include severe diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss. Like psoriasis, Crohn’s disease is thought to be driven by an inappropriate immune response. Dr Kusumika Kanak, Consultant Dermatologist, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Hadapsar, Pune shares all you need to know:
The Gut-Skin Axis – The concept of the gut-skin axis suggests a bidirectional relationship between gastrointestinal health and skin condition. This relationship is mediated by multiple factors including the immune system, gut microbiota, and the intestinal barrier.
- Immune System DysregulationPsoriasis and Crohn’s disease have an overreaction of the immune system in common. Psoriasis is caused by the immune system attacking healthy skin cells and growing over them. Crohn’s causes the immune system to attack the lining of the intestines. Certain studies show that some cytokines such as TNF-alpha, as well as IL-23 and IL-17, are elevated in both diseases due to some shared inflammatory pathways.
- Gut MicrobiotaMost importantly, the gut microbiome is critical to help manage the immune system and strengthen the gut barrier. In Both psoriasis and Crohn’s patients there is an imbalance between their gut bacteria and gut microbiome known as Dysbiosis. This imbalance leads to higher intestinal permeability and inflammation which exacerbates skin symptoms in psoriasis and digestive symptoms in Crohn’s.
- Genetic SusceptibilityThere are genetic overlaps between psoriasis and Crohn’s disease, with several genes involved in immune regulation being implicated in both conditions. This genetic predisposition can influence an individual’s likelihood of developing either or both diseases.The link between psoriasis and Crohn’s disease highlights the importance of a holistic approach to treatment that considers both skin and gut health. For individuals with psoriasis, especially those with severe disease, routine screenings for gastrointestinal symptoms may be advisable.
Treatment strategies for managing both psoriasis and Crohn’s disease include biologic therapies that target specific immune factors, offering dual benefits for patients. Dietary and lifestyle changes, such as adopting anti-inflammatory diets and incorporating probiotics and prebiotics, can significantly impact gut microbiota and reduce systemic inflammation. Additionally, integrated care involving both dermatologists and gastroenterologists is essential to coordinate treatments effectively and address both skin and gastrointestinal symptoms comprehensively.
Understanding the link between gut health and psoriasis opens new avenues for treatment and highlights the need for comprehensive care approaches that encompass both dermatological and gastrointestinal health. Continued research into the gut-skin axis will be vital in developing more effective therapies that can provide relief and improve quality of life for patients affected by both psoriasis and Crohn’s disease.
