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Bariatric surgery and psoriasis

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Obesity is associated with psoriasis and poses a significant obstacle to psoriasis management. Bariatric surgery is an effective procedure for weight loss, and some reports suggest that it may improve psoriasis. However, more evidence is needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn. Bariatric surgery procedures, in particular the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, may one day be a viable option for obese patients with refractory psoriasis.

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Bariatric surgery and obesity

Bariatric surgery procedures, including the laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (AGB), standard Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, have been found to be safe and effective treatments for weight loss.12, 13 The number of bariatric surgeries worldwide has increased significantly in recent years, from 5000 surgeries between 1987 and 1989 to an estimated 350,000 in 2008.13 Traditionally, the procedures were thought to cause weight loss solely through

Bariatric surgery and psoriasis

Limited evidence suggests that patients with psoriasis who undergo bariatric surgery may experience improvement of psoriasis after surgery. This phenomenon was first described in 1977 after a patient underwent jejunoileal bypass.15 The patient had severe psoriasis and shortly after undergoing surgery, noticed significant improvement. After losing over 100 lb, the patient had only localized psoriasis 2 years after surgery.15

Three case reports have described similar results after patients

References (22)

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    (2013)
  • Cited by (18)

    • Skin changes and manifestations associated with the treatment of obesity

      2019, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
      Citation Excerpt :

      These findings, however, are based largely on case reports and retrospective surveys. Most patients reported significant improvements in psoriasis within 1 year.67 In a retrospective survey, 62% noted improvements, 26% no change, and 12% worsening of their psoriasis after undergoing bariatric surgery.64

    • Diet in dermatology: Part II. Melanoma, chronic urticaria, and psoriasis

      2014, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
      Citation Excerpt :

      A low calorie diet and weight loss also resulted in improved PASI, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and serum lipid levels.170,171 In addition, bariatric surgery–induced weight loss led to the clinical improvement of psoriasis and a decreased need for psoriasis medications.172-174 Weight loss may also improve the efficacy of some psoriasis medications.

    • Resolution of Comorbidities Following Bariatric Surgery: Diabetes, Hypertension, Sleep Apnea, and Metabolic Syndrome

      2023, Obesity, Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide: Second Edition
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    Funding sources: None.

    Disclosure: Dr Wu received research funding from Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie, Amgen, Eli Lilly, Merck, and Pfizer, which were not directly related to this study. Mr Sako and Ms Famenini have no conflicts of interest to declare.

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