Rahmati-Roudsari Mohammad; Saeedi Marjan; Eshghi Gholamreza
Volume 12, Issue 4 , 2009, , Pages 127-130
Abstract
Background: Controversial data concerning the elevation of serum angiotensin-converting enzyme in psoriasis are reported in the literature. In order to verify whether this abnormality exists in Iranian patients, we performed this study. Method: Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme level was measured in ...
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Background: Controversial data concerning the elevation of serum angiotensin-converting enzyme in psoriasis are reported in the literature. In order to verify whether this abnormality exists in Iranian patients, we performed this study. Method: Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme level was measured in 40 psoriatics. According to clinical forms of psoriasis, patients were further divided into three groups: common plaque type (n=24), pustular psoriasis (n=10) and erythrodermic psoriasis (n=6). Results: Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme shows some increase in patients with psoriasis; the greatest increase in serum angiotensinconverting enzyme level was observed in patients with erythrodermic psoriasis. Conclusion: Our results suggest that angiotensin-converting enzyme may have a role in the aetiopathogenesis of psoriasis but further studies are warranted to evaluate the possible role of this enzyme in psoriasis.
Malekzad Farhad; Qeisari Mehdi; Nasiri Soheila; Rahmati-Roudsari Mohammad; Saeedi Marjan; Sarlak Mojdeh
Volume 12, Issue 1 , 2009, , Pages 9-12
Abstract
Background: An elevated homocysteine level is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disorders. Psoriatic patients have an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases; In addition, hyperhomocysteinemia is a complication of methotrexate treatment. We undertook a study to evaluate the plasma levels ...
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Background: An elevated homocysteine level is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disorders. Psoriatic patients have an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases; In addition, hyperhomocysteinemia is a complication of methotrexate treatment. We undertook a study to evaluate the plasma levels of homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folate in patients with psoriasis before and after short-term low-dose methotrexate treatment. Methods: Twenty six patients with psoriasis were recruited. The plasma levels of homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folate were evaluated before and 8 weeks after methotrexate therapy (in the peak of methotrexate effect). Results: No significant difference was found between the plasma profile of homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folate before and after methotrexate treatment. Conclusion: In the short-term treatment of psoriasis, methotrexate does not increase homocysteine level.
