Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have uncovered a significant association between psoriasis and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in US adults, using data from the National Institutes of Health All of Us Research Program. The study is the first to demonstrate this link in a diverse American population. The findings suggest that dermatologists could play a critical role in identifying and referring patients who may be at risk for mental health disorders. Psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition affecting over 8 million Americans, and OCD, a psychiatric disorder affecting 2 to 3 million people, may share overlapping symptoms and inflammatory pathways that contribute to their co-occurrence.

The study suggests that the overlap between psoriasis and OCD could be driven by factors such as chronic itching, sleep disturbances, and the compulsive behaviors associated with both conditions. Inflammation may also play a role, as both disorders involve elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines. The diverse dataset from the All of Us program allowed researchers to explore these associations across a broad spectrum of the US population, offering insights that could improve patient care. The study’s findings highlight the need for dermatologists to integrate mental health assessments into their practice to better address the holistic needs of their patients.

Reference: Cornman E. Dermatology and Mental Health: Study Links Psoriasis to OCD. Yale School of Medicine. Published June 18, 2024. Accessed August 16, 2024. https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/dermatology-and-mental-health-study-links-psoriasis-to-ocd/