What is the relationship between psoriasis and abdominal pain?

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Last updated: April 29, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Abdominal pain in patients with psoriasis should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause, which may be related to psoriatic arthritis, medications, or inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, as suggested by the most recent guidelines 1. When considering the management of abdominal pain in psoriasis patients, it is essential to recognize the potential associations with other conditions.

  • Psoriatic arthritis can affect joints near the abdomen, leading to abdominal pain.
  • Certain medications used to treat psoriasis, such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics, can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain 1.
  • The risk of developing inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis is higher in patients with psoriasis, which can cause significant abdominal pain 1.
  • Psychological stress associated with managing a chronic condition like psoriasis may also contribute to abdominal discomfort. Given the potential complexity of abdominal pain in psoriasis patients, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause of the pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan, as recommended by the updated treatment recommendations for psoriatic arthritis 2021 1. In evaluating abdominal pain, healthcare providers should consider criteria that might prompt referral for evaluation of possible inflammatory bowel disease, including chronic diarrhea, nocturnal bowel symptoms, rectal bleeding, chronic abdominal pain, perianal fistula or abscess, and weight loss 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

The principal adverse reactions associated with the use of cyclosporine in patients with psoriasis are renal dysfunction, headache, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, hirsutism/hypertrichosis, paresthesia or hyperesthesia, influenza-like symptoms, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, lethargy, and musculoskeletal or joint pain. Gastrointestinal System: ... Abdominal Pain 2.7% ...

Abdominal pain is a reported adverse event in patients with psoriasis treated with cyclosporine, occurring in 2.7% of patients 2.

From the Research

Psoriasis and Abdominal Pain

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that links psoriasis to abdominal pain as a symptom.
  • However, some treatments for psoriasis may cause abdominal pain as a side effect, but this is not explicitly mentioned in the studies.

Treatment Options for Psoriasis

  • The studies discuss various treatment options for psoriasis, including biological agents such as ustekinumab, adalimumab, infliximab, and etanercept 3.
  • Other treatment options mentioned include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and combination therapy 4, 5, 6.
  • The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the disease, patient contraindications, and cost effectiveness 3.

Comorbidities and Psoriasis

  • Psoriasis is associated with several comorbidities, including psoriatic arthritis, cardiometabolic diseases, and mental health disorders 7.
  • Treatment of psoriasis may also involve managing these comorbidities, but abdominal pain is not mentioned as a specific comorbidity.

Conclusion Not Provided

As per the instructions, no conclusion will be drawn from the provided evidence. The information is presented as is, with relevant citations to the studies 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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