P125 Hidden atherogenic risk in psoriasis: a case–control study using the Atherogenic Index of Plasma

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease that extends beyond the skin and is increasingly associated with metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidities. Persistent systemic inflammation in psoriasis contributes to dyslipidaemia and accelerated atherosclerosis. The Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP), derived from triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, is a simple surrogate marker reflecting atherogenic risk and small, dense low-density lipoprotein particles. The aim of this study was to assess and compare the AIP in patients with psoriasis and healthy controls. This hospital-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at a tertiary care centre. In total 150 participants were enrolled, comprising 100 clinically diagnosed patients with psoriasis and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (2 : 1 ratio). Adults aged ≥ 18 years who had not received any treatment in the preceding month were included. Individuals with diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, chronic renal or hepatic disease, obesity (body mass index > 30 kg m−2), smoking history or malignancy, or those receiving lipid-lowering therapy were excluded. After overnight fasting, lipid profile parameters including triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were measured. AIP was calculated as log10 (triglycerides / HDL-C). Data were analysed using standard statistical software. Normality was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and comparison between groups was performed using an independent samples t-test, with P-values < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Baseline demographic variables, including age and sex distribution, were comparable between groups (P > 0.05). The mean AIP was significantly higher in patients with psoriasis than in controls (0.51 vs. 0.40). This difference was statistically significant (P = 0.02), with both groups showing normal distribution of values. Patients with psoriasis demonstrate a significantly elevated AIP compared with healthy controls, suggesting an increased atherogenic and cardiovascular risk. AIP may serve as a simple, cost-effective marker for early cardiovascular risk stratification in patients with psoriasis in practice.