Plasma catecholamines and immunoglobulin A in psoriasis

ABSTRACT

Plasma catecholamines [epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine] and serum I[g]A levels were determined in 20 patients with chronic generalized psoriasis, 11 patients with chronic localized psoriasis and in 14 healthy subjects of comparable age and sex group. The levels of plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine were significantly increased in both psoriatic groups than controls, while plasma dopamine level was significantly increased in only psoriatic patients with generalized skin lesions. No significant differences were noticed in these levels between both psoriatic groups. Serum I[g]A level was significantly elevated in both psoriatic groups as compared to controls. Its level in both psoriatric groups showed also no significant difference. It could be concluded that; 1] stress in psoriatic patients produces a stronger activation of the sympatho-adrenomedullary system with enhanced release of catecholamines.2] raised plasma catecholamines in psoriatics may lead to immune changes; evidenced by the raised I[g]A level. Therefore, application of psychoneuriommunological treatment, relaxation therapy, hypnosis and/or biofeedback training is recommended for psoriatic patients