Patients with psoriasis are reported to have fewer teeth and reduced bone levels, but no association between psoriasis and periodontal disease, as reported in a recent study published in Indian Dermatology Online Journal.
“This study aimed at comparatively evaluating the periodontal status of psoriatic patients vis. a vis. that of age and gender matched systemically healthy volunteers,” explained the study authors.
Researchers designed a descriptive cross-sectional study to analyze 42 patients with psoriasis. Participants were recruited over 10 months, and their periodontal status was compared with 42 age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers. Their blood was also collected to obtain and analyze serum samples in an attempt to identify an underlying common pathological pathway.
Results showed a higher bleeding point in healthy individuals vs the psoriasis group (P=.001). The psoriasis group had a higher mean number of teeth at 29.69 compared with 28.28 in the healthy group (P=.034). No statistically significant correlation was found in serum levels.
“Contrary to currently available evidence in literature, the study did not find a statistically significant relationship between psoriasis and inflammatory periodontal disease,” concluded the study authors. “Alternatively, individuals with psoriasis were found to have an improved periodontal status as compared to the healthy group studied,” they continued. –Lisa Kuhns
Reference
Gupta S, Dogra S, Chahal GS, Prashar S, Singh AP, Gupta M. Psoriasis and periodontitis: exploring an association or lack thereof. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2021;12(2):281-284. doi:10.4103/idoj.IDOJ_445_20
