| Abstract [eng] |
Psoriasis manifests as a chronic skin, nail and joint disease, which is a major health problem with a negative impact on quality of life. The current standard tool for assessment of psoriasis severity is PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) score, which has been shown to have its shortcomings. The demand for reliable assessment tool of psoriasis severity and therapy effectiveness influenced a growing interest in biomarkers research. P-selectin is an important adhesion molecule involved in cell-cell interactions and playing a crucial role in inflammation. Activated P-selectin expressing platelets, possessing an ability to activate leukocytes and endothelium through adhesion molecules and derived substances, are also capable to increase an overall rolling of leukocytes in the microvasculature of the skin. In this study we focused on evaluation of platelet P-selectin level, as a possible biomarker for systemic inflammation and disease severity in patients with inflammatory skin conditions. Our study has shown that platelets in blood of patients hospitalized with exacerbated common inflammatory skin diseases are activated, as compared to controls. Activation of platelets, as measured by platelet P-selectin, is closely associated with the clinical severity of psoriasis. In addition, the levels of platelet P-selectin correlate with C-reactive protein, what confirms P-selectin as a valid biomarker for inflammation. Evaluation of P-selectin level might be a valuable instrument in psoriasis patients (i) for the assessment of the clinical severity of disease, (ii) to determine treatment effectiveness, future treatment and monitoring regime, as well as (iii) for finding an optimal way to control psoriasis associated conditions. |
