Psoriasis and endothelins.
BACKGROUND
Psoriasis is characterized by an abnormal proliferation and increased turnover of keratinocytes, the presence of acute and chronic inflammatory cells and microangiopathic changes. Endothelins are a family of peptides which have been investigated especially for their effects on the cardiovascular system. Recent studies have demonstrated their involvement also in human skin.


OBJECTIVE
We evaluated the Endothelin-1 and 2 plasma levels in psoriatic patients, as endothelin-1 can be produced in vitro by keratinocytes and can stimulate the proliferation of fibroblasts as well as modify the skin microcirculation dynamics.


METHODS
We studied 30 patients: 10 affected with psoriasis (PASI from 5 to 10), 10 affected with cardiovascular diseases and 10 healthy controls. The Endothelin-1 and 2 plasma levels were evaluated by radio-immunoassay procedure.


RESULTS
A significant increase in Endothelin-1 and 2 plasma levels was observed in the psoriatic patients, in comparison with the controls.


CONCLUSIONS
Our data seem to suggest a possible relationship between psoriasis and increased plasma level of endothelin-1 and 2, though the possible role played in the pathogenesis of psoriasis needs further studies.
Trevisan
G
G
Institute of Dermatology, University of Trieste, Italy.
Stinco
G
G
Giansante
C
C
Fiotti
N
N
Vidimari
P
P
Kokelj
F
F
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000097:blood; D016232:Endothelins / Q000097:blood*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000097:blood*
D016232:Endothelins