According to recent findings from Uppsala University, individuals dealing with psoriasis often experience unnoticed inflammation in their small intestines, which may lead to a condition known as ‘leaky gut’. This gut alteration could shed light on why those with psoriasis frequently encounter digestive issues and are at greater risk for conditions like Crohn’s disease. The research is detailed in Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) — Molecular Basis of Disease.
According to recent findings from Uppsala University, individuals dealing with psoriasis often experience unnoticed inflammation in their small intestines, which may lead to a condition known as ‘leaky gut’. This gut alteration could shed light on why those with psoriasis frequently encounter digestive issues and are at greater risk for conditions like Crohn’s disease. The research is detailed in Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) — Molecular Basis of Disease.
Psoriasis is a genetic, long-lasting skin disorder that can also cause joint inflammation. In Sweden, nearly 300,000 individuals have some variant of this condition. Patients with psoriasis are more likely to experience chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), particularly Crohn’s disease, compared to the general population.
“Past studies have indicated that individuals with psoriasis face more digestive issues than the average person. Nevertheless, we lacked understanding of the underlying reasons. Our research reveals that many psoriasis patients have hidden inflammation in their small intestines, significantly connected to an increased risk of so-called leaky gut,” explains Maria Lampinen, a researcher at Uppsala University.
Pro-inflammatory activity in the gut
The research involved 18 psoriasis patients and 15 healthy individuals as a comparison group. None of the participants had been diagnosed with any gastrointestinal disorders. Samples were collected from both their small and large intestines to analyze various immune cell types within the mucous membrane.
“Our findings indicated that psoriasis patients had a higher count of specific immune cells in their small intestines, which exhibited signs of being pro-inflammatory. Notably, we observed similar immune cells during psoriasis flare-ups in patient’s skin, implying that skin inflammation might influence gut health, or vice versa.
Increased propensity for leaky gut
Typically, the intestinal lining acts as a protective barrier, permitting the passage of nutrients and water. In certain autoimmune conditions, this barrier can become compromised, leading to a ‘leaky gut’ scenario where bacteria and harmful substances infiltrate the intestinal lining, resulting in inflammation. This can trigger further inflammation when these substances enter the bloodstream.
In this study, half of the psoriasis patients exhibited a higher intestinal barrier permeability or leaky gut. These individuals also reported more digestive symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and bloating compared to those with a healthy intestinal barrier. Additionally, they had increased levels of inflammatory markers in their intestines.
“Despite the fact that the psoriasis patients we studied had relatively mild skin symptoms and no visible intestinal inflammation detected during gastroscopy, they displayed significant alterations in their small intestines compared to the healthy controls. These findings could clarify why psoriasis patients often face digestive issues and a heightened risk for Crohn’s disease.
Important research for these patients
The Psoriasisförbundet (Swedish Psoriasis Association) member magazine featured an article on this research. Following its release, Maria Lampinen received numerous emails from individuals who identified with these observations.
“They expressed interest in understanding the connection between gut and skin health, noting correlations between their gut and skin symptoms. This indicates that our research is crucial and necessary for the patients themselves. A deeper comprehension of digestive issues in psoriasis patients may enable the healthcare system to better recognize the gut-skin connection and could ultimately lead to improved treatment options.
The study was supported by funds managed by the Psoriasis Association and Hudfonden (the Skin Foundation), among others.
