Psoriasis and Its Interplay with Liver Diseases: Evidence, Mechanisms, and Clinical Implications

Authors

• Rajaa Jaber Abdel Rasul, Department of Emergency Medicine and First Aid Technologies, Institute of Medical Technology-Baghdad, Middle Technical University, Baghdad, IraqFollow
• Noor Abdulhussain Naama, Department of Forensic Evidence Sciences, College of Science, Al-Karkh University of Science, Baghdad, IraqFollow
• Sabaa Abd Jaber, College of Engineering, AL-Iraqia University, Baghdad, IraqFollow
• Noor Faraj Kadhem, Polymer Research Unit, College of Science, Al-Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, IraqFollow

Article Type

Article

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease of immune-related origin. It is no longer classified solely as a localized skin disorder but is now recognized as a systemic disease associated with numerous complications and co-morbidities. Recent studies have demonstrated a strong link between psoriasis and several liver diseases, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and cirrhosis. This association is attributed to shared pathogenic mechanisms among these diseases, including metabolic disturbances, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation, as well as the pivotal role of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α ), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-17 (IL-17). Recent studies have indicated that psoriasis patients are more susceptible to liver disease than others, and that the severity of systemic inflammation may contribute to the development of cirrhosis and its severe complications. Therefore, a comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic approach, including regular assessment of liver function and monitoring of metabolic risk factors, is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing long-term complications in these patients. The present review focused on drawing attention to the relationship between psoriasis and common liver diseases by examining available scientific findings, identifying shared inflammatory and immune mechanisms, discussing the roles of biomarkers associated with liver damage and psoriasis, and exploring the potential effects of certain psoriasis management therapies on liver function and liver pathology. The review also addresses the clinical dimensions of this association, and the importance of early detection of psoriasis and liver complications in patients with psoriasis.

Keywords

Biochemistry, Clinical biochemistry, Psoriasis, Hepatic, Cirrhosis, Skin disease, Inflammation, Biomarkers, follow-up

Recommended Citation

Rasul, Rajaa Jaber Abdel; Naama, Noor Abdulhussain; Jaber, Sabaa Abd; and Kadhem, Noor Faraj (2026) "Psoriasis and Its Interplay with Liver Diseases: Evidence, Mechanisms, and Clinical Implications," Muthanna Medical Journal: Vol. 13: Iss. 3, Article 5.
Available at: https://muthmj.mu.edu.iq/journal/vol13/iss3/5

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.