Severity of Psoriasis and Body Mass Index: The Cut off are Overweight Patients rather Than Obese Ones

Background: Obesity has been found to be associated with an increased risk of psoriasis in general population. However, studies addressing the relationship between obesity and clinical severity of psoriasis are still scarce and confused. Objective: In this study, we investigated the relationship between levels of overweight and the clinical severity of psoriasis in Caucasian patients. Methods: This study involved a total of 300 patients with chronic plaque psoriasis. Their body mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in squared metres and was categorized into four groups (BMI<25, normal; 25< BMI >30, overweight; BMI >30, obesity). Disease severity was assessed by Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. Results: The correlation between PASI score and BMI was statistically significant between overweight and normoweight patients. Discussion and Conclusions: Both psoriasis and obesity are chronic diseases with a high impact on social cost and quality of life. Both PASI score and BMI have to be correctly evaluated to administer a proper treatment, because overweight psoriasis patients do represent a risk category for severe psoriasis