Lipoprotein (a) in patients with psoriasis: associations with lipid profiles and disease severity

Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is a genetically determined molecule whose role has been implied in cardiovascular pathology, and whose levels have been reported to be elevated in patients with psoriasis. To assess the serum levels of Lp(a) in patients with psoriasis, and to investigate the associations of Lp(a) with other lipids and with psoriasis severity. Thirty-four patients with psoriasis and 26 healthy control subjects took part in the study. Serum levels of Lp(a) and total, high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol fractions were measured in all participants. The levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol were measured using enzymatic colorimetric tests; HDL and LDL cholesterol concentrations were determined by precipitation methods; the VLDL concentration was calculated according to the formula: VLDL cholesterol = triglycerides/5. Patients with psoriasis showed significantly higher serum levels of Lp(a) relative to controls. Even when controlling for normolipidemic vs. hyperlipidemic status, abnormal levels of Lp(a) (> 30 mg/dL) were observed significantly more often in patients than in controls. In both patients and controls, Lp(a) levels correlated positively with total and HDL cholesterol levels. In patients, Lp(a) levels correlated positively with psoriasis severity. Lp(a) may be a factor contributing to an increased cardiovascular risk in patients with psoriasis. A pathogenetic link may exist between this lipoprotein and psoriatic pathophysiology.