The association between psoriasis and suicide

Abstract

Introduction

The pathophysiology of psoriasis and suicide has yet to be fully understood. This article explores the role of cytokines and psychoneuroimmunology in these diseases and describes the role of psychological assessment in psoriasis patients.

Data Sources

A serach of literature was performed using the MEDLINE search engine and Google Scholar. English language articles were identified using the following serach terms: psoriasis and depression, psoriasis and suicide, self harm behaviors, inflammatory cytokines.

Results

Several observations and studies suggest that there is an underlying pathophysiological link between psoriasis and depression marked by elevated pro-inflammatory markers. Research data indicate complex interactions between inflammation and cytokines. Immunomodulating drugs have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating effects. Preliminary clinical studies show that these agents may be beneficial in psoriasis and suicide, but their therapeutic value should be studied further.

Conclusion

Psychological assessment is an important step in screening, diagnosing, and managing depression leading to suicidal behavior in psoriasis patients.