Mean platelet volume: an immanent predictor of subclinical atherosclerosis in psoriatic patients compared with interleukin-1α and interleukin-6

Abstract

Background: Mean platelet volume (MPV), may help to determine atherosclerosis threat. Cardiovascular disease is one of the common causes of morbidity and mortality in patients having psoriasis.

Objective: To examine MPV as a biomarker for subclinical atherosclerosis in psoriasis patients, compared with interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-6, and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT).

Patients and methods: Psoriatic patients (n=70) and age-matched and sex-matched healthy controls (n=60) were enrolled. Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score was used to assess psoriasis severity. For all enrolled participants; evaluation of MPV, IL-1α, and IL-6 serum levels, and measuring of CIMT were done.

Results: The mean values of MPV, IL-1, IL-6, and CIMT, all were significantly elevated in psoriatic patients than controls (P<0.05 for all). They were significantly correlated with each other (P<0.001), and with severity of psoriasis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed the possible validity of MPV for detection of subclinical atherosclerosis in psoriatic patients (sensitivity=90.9%, specificity=61.5%, accuracy=80%, area under the curve=0.82, P<0.001, 95% confidence interval=0.71–92) with 8.95 fl/ml as a cutoff value.

Conclusion: MPV is a good sensitive test for early prediction of atherosclerosis in psoriatic patients. We recommend a follow-up large scale study on psoriasis to examine the use of antiplatelets.