Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania, in the US, found that among patients with high BP, the likelihood of having uncontrolled hypertension was greatest in those with moderate to severe psoriasis.
This study marks the first time the association between psoriasis severity and BP control has been investigated, the authors said.
The study analysed data from GP practices on 13,299 UK patients diagnosed with hypertension, 1,322 of whom also had psoriasis.
Hypertension control could help psoriasis
It found that 51% of the patients classified as having mild psoriasis, 57% of those with moderate psoriasis and 60% of patients with severe psoriasis had uncontrolled hypertension, showing a dose-response relationship between the severity of psoriasis and the condition.
The researchers suggested that by improving the management of hypertension, clinicians could help to treat patients with severe psoriasis, but further study was required.
They said it was important for GPs to look out for uncontrolled hypertension in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis covering more than 3% of their body surface area.
They concluded: 'Our findings have important implications, suggesting a need for more effective management of BP in psoriasis.'
