Association of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and psoriasis: A case-control study at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan

Abstract

Objective To compare association of Non-Alcoholic fatty liver disease in psoriatic patients versus age and gender matched healthy controls.  Methods Association of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in psoriatic patients versus healthy controls was compared. Diagnosis was made on ultrasonography and results were recorded.  Results The prevalence of NAFLD in patients with psoriasis was significantly higher as compared to Controls (52.4% vs. 28.7%). The likelihood of having NAFLD was about 2.5 times greater in patients with PsO than the controls (OR 2.741, 95% CI= 1.53-4.904, p= 0.001). In our study it is more frequently reported in males and those in younger age groups.  Conclusion NAFLD appears to occur more frequently in patients with PsO than in the general population. In our study it is more frequently reported in males and those in younger age groups. Patients of PsO should get screened for NAFLD so that planning of appropriate treatment should be taken into consideration to avoid possible risk related of   exacerbation or development of NAFLD.