What Happens if Psoriasis is Left Untreated?

Abstract

Psoriasis is more than a skin condition; it is a systemic inflammatory disease that can have widespread consequences if left untreated. While the visible symptoms—red, scaly patches—are the most recognized, untreated psoriasis can lead to severe complications affecting multiple organ systems, including the joints, cardiovascular system, kidneys, and mental health. This research article explores the risks of leaving psoriasis unmanaged, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.

Introduction

Psoriasis affects approximately 2–3% of the global population, with its burden often underestimated because it is primarily seen as a dermatological condition. However, recent studies reveal that psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease with systemic implications. This article aims to shed light on what happens if psoriasis is left untreated, highlighting the cascading effects of uncontrolled inflammation on overall health.

The Systemic Nature of Psoriasis

1. Joint Health: Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
   Up to 30% of individuals with psoriasis develop PsA, a condition that causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Left untreated, PsA can result in irreversible joint damage and disability. Early intervention with medications like biologics can slow disease progression​
2. Cardiovascular Complications
   Chronic inflammation in psoriasis increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack, stroke, and hypertension. A 2023 study linked untreated psoriasis with higher rates of atherosclerosis due to persistent systemic inflammation​
3. Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes
   Psoriasis has been associated with metabolic syndrome, characterized by obesity, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. Without treatment, this can increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes and related complications​
4. Kidney Health
   Chronic inflammation may contribute to kidney damage, increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease. In severe cases, untreated psoriasis may lead to renal failure, necessitating lifelong dialysis or kidney transplantation​
5. Mental Health and Quality of Life
   Psoriasis patients frequently experience depression and anxiety, exacerbated by stigma and the burden of physical symptoms. Untreated psoriasis can lead to worsening mental health, social withdrawal, and, in extreme cases, suicidal ideation​
6. Cancer Risk
   Research suggests that prolonged systemic inflammation may elevate the risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly in individuals with untreated severe psoriasis​
7. Other Organ Systems
   • Eyes: Uveitis, an inflammatory condition of the eye, can occur in people with psoriasis.
   • Gastrointestinal Tract: There is an increased risk of inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Early treatment can prevent or mitigate many of the complications associated with psoriasis. Effective treatment options include:

• Topical treatments for mild psoriasis.
• Phototherapy for moderate cases.
• Systemic treatments and biologics, which target specific inflammatory pathways, for severe psoriasis​

Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding triggers like smoking, can also reduce flare-ups and systemic inflammation​

Conclusion

Psoriasis is not merely a skin condition; it is a multifaceted disease with potential systemic complications. Ignoring treatment allows inflammation to wreak havoc on the body, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and even certain cancers. Timely intervention with medical treatments, coupled with lifestyle modifications, can prevent these complications and improve patients’ quality of life.

By raising awareness and encouraging early diagnosis and management, we can help individuals with psoriasis lead healthier, fuller lives.

References

1. National Psoriasis Foundation. (2023). Psoriatic Disease and Comorbidities. Retrieved from www.psoriasis.org.
2. Verywell Health. (2024). Plaque Psoriasis: Causes, Triggers, and Treatment Options. Retrieved from www.verywellhealth.com
3. Mayo Clinic. (2024). Psoriasis: Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from www.mayoclinic.org
4. Healthline. (2023). Psoriasis and Heart Health. Retrieved from www.healthline.com.

This article is tailored to inform the general public using simple, accessible language while integrating the latest research findings.